Arkansas Senate Bill SB371

Arkansas 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/4/25
• Refer: 3/4/25
• Refer: 3/12/25
• Report Pass: 3/19/25
• Engrossed: 3/31/25
• Refer: 3/31/25
• Report Pass: 4/2/25
• Enrolled: 4/10/25
• Chaptered: 4/18/25
• Passed: 4/18/25

Caption

To Establish A Standardized System To Aid In The Search Of Missing Children Who Do Not Meet The Criteria For Activation Of The Arkansas Amber Alert System.

Impact

The legislation signifies an important shift in Arkansas law regarding child safety and missing person protocols. By establishing a separate advisory system for instances where the Amber Alert is inapplicable, the bill aims to empower local law enforcement agencies with the necessary tools and guidelines to expedite their search efforts. This initiative is particularly pivotal for children who may be at risk due to factors such as age, health, or suspicious circumstances surrounding their disappearance. It could ultimately lead to improved recovery rates for missing children who would otherwise remain unaccounted for within existing frameworks.

Summary

Senate Bill 371 establishes a standardized system dedicated to assisting the search for missing children in Arkansas who do not meet the qualifications for the activation of the Arkansas Amber Alert System. This legislation aims to enhance the state's responsive measures for locating endangered children, creating an additional layer of safety for vulnerable youth. The proposal arises from a recognized gap where certain missing child cases, particularly those not qualifying under the Amber Alert criteria, lack immediate and effective communication measures that could aid in their recovery.

Sentiment

The overall sentiment surrounding SB371 appears to be positive, with bipartisan support evident during discussions and voting. Lawmakers recognize the critical nature of addressing the issue of missing children, reflecting a shared commitment to public safety and the welfare of children. The unanimous voting outcome — with 35 yeas and no nays during its third reading — suggests a robust consensus about the bill's necessity and importance in enhancing community protection measures.

Contention

While the bill has been well-received, concerns regarding the implementation process and the adequacy of resources allocated to support the new system have been raised. Legislators and advocates have debated the practicality of activating this advisory system and its effects on local law enforcement's workload. Moreover, there is a focus on ensuring that the new protocol does not diminish the current effectiveness of the Amber Alert system, but instead complements it by filling the critical gaps for cases that don't meet those strict activation criteria.