House Amendment 2
H 3340 - Session 125 (2023-2024)
Missing person alerts

Rep. Bernstein proposes the following amendment (LC-3340.CM0002H):

Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 1, by striking Section 23-3-330(A), (B), (C), and (D) and inserting:

(A) The Endangered Person Notification System is established within the Missing Person Information Center. The purpose of the Endangered Person Notification System is to provide a statewide system for the rapid dissemination of information regarding a missing person who is believed to be suffering from Alzheimer's disease, dementia, a developmental disability such as autism spectrum disorder, or some other cognitive impairment.

(B) If the center receives a report that involves a missing person who is believed to be suffering from Alzheimer's disease, dementia, a developmental disability such as autism spectrum disorder, or some other cognitive impairment, for the protection of the person from potential abuse or other physical harm, neglect, or exploitation, the center shall issue a notification providing for the appropriate dissemination of information regarding the person.

(C) The center shall adopt guidelines and develop procedures for issuing notifications , including wireless emergency alert notifications, for missing persons believed to be suffering from Alzheimer's disease, dementia, a developmental disability such as autism spectrum disorder, or some other cognitive impairment, provide education and training to local law enforcement agencies, and encourage radio and television broadcasters to participate in the notifications.

(D) The center shall consult with the Department of Transportation and develop a procedure for the use of overhead permanent changeable message signs to provide information on a missing person who is believed to be suffering from Alzheimer's disease, dementia, a developmental disability such as autism spectrum disorder, or some other cognitive impairment when the person's vehicle and license tag information is available. The Department of Transportation shall utilize current protocol for the content, length, and frequency of any message to be placed on an overhead permanent changeable message sign.

(E) The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division shall be authorized to send wireless emergency alerts pursuant to this section.