Missing children; runaway; contact information; National Crime Information Center; procedures; notice; effective date.
Impact
The enactment of HB 3987 would require a significant update to the operational protocols of various law enforcement agencies across Oklahoma. By standardizing the collection and dissemination of information related to missing persons, the bill seeks to facilitate better tracking and resolution of such cases. Specifically, it aims to enhance inter-agency communication between local law enforcement and state entities, increasing efficiency and potentially reducing the time taken to locate missing youths. The bill also envisions an electronic database that would support these efforts, improving overall public safety measures surrounding vulnerable populations, particularly children.
Summary
House Bill 3987 aims to enhance the procedures and responsibilities of law enforcement agencies in handling reports of missing or runaway persons, specifically targeting individuals under eighteen years of age. The bill mandates that law enforcement officers collect detailed biographical and contact information for all involved parties when a missing person report is received. This information must be entered into the National Crime Information Center system in accordance with established procedures. The legislation emphasizes timely reporting, requiring law enforcement to notify the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation and the relevant health authorities within specific timeframes following the discovery of a missing individual.
Contention
However, there may be concerns regarding the practical implementation of such measures. Critics might argue about the adequacy of resources available for law enforcement agencies to successfully gather and manage sensitive biographical data, especially in cases of family abductions. Balancing the need for comprehensive data collection with privacy concerns of involved parties could be contentious. Furthermore, the requirement to notify the Center for Health Statistics could raise questions about the appropriateness of sharing information outside law enforcement efforts, particularly for those needing confidentiality during such distressing circumstances.
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