Requires Silver Alert System receive same broadcast alerts as Amber Alert System.
Impact
If enacted, S1821 would amend existing laws governing the Silver Alert System to require media outlets to broadcast alerts in a manner similar to that used for Amber Alerts. This includes the use of a distinctive sound tone and an announcement stating, 'This is a Missing Person Silver Alert,' followed by pertinent information about the missing individual. These alerts would be broadcast frequently for the first three hours and subsequently at intervals deemed appropriate by law enforcement and media outlets. This is expected to facilitate quicker public awareness and responses to missing person cases.
Summary
Senate Bill S1821 aims to enhance the Silver Alert System in New Jersey by requiring it to receive the same broadcast alerts as the Amber Alert System, which is typically used for missing children. The Silver Alert System is intended for disseminating information about missing individuals, particularly those who may be suffering from dementia or other cognitive impairments. The bill stresses the importance of media participation in issuing these alerts promptly to mobilize community assistance in locating missing persons.
Contention
While the bill is primarily aimed at improving public safety and the recovery of missing individuals, it may also raise questions regarding the resources required from media organizations and law enforcement agencies to comply with the new alert broadcast standards. Concerns may also arise about the effectiveness of such public alerts, considering existing challenges faced by the Silver Alert System. Advocates may argue that these changes are essential for ensuring timely community involvement in cases of vulnerable missing persons, particularly the elderly.
Concerning Missing Persons Alerts; To Codify The Arkansas Amber Alert System; To Codify The Arkansas Silver Alert System; And To Create The Missing Endangered Adult Advisory System.