Executive Summary
- House Bill 1840 proposes a "Purple Alert System" for missing persons with developmental disabilities.
- Sponsored by Rep. Sherri Gallick, the bill mandates implementation by the Department of Public Safety by July 2027.
- The system requires immediate dissemination of information to media and law enforcement, similar to Amber Alerts.
JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – Missouri lawmakers are advancing legislation intended to create a specialized statewide alert system dedicated to locating missing persons with developmental disabilities. The House Children and Families Committee conducted a hearing on February 17 regarding House Bill 1840, which proposes the establishment of a "Purple Alert System" within the Missouri Department of Public Safety.
Sponsored by Representative Sherri Gallick (R-Bates and Cass Counties), the bill outlines a framework designed to enhance emergency responses and heighten public awareness regarding vulnerable populations. According to the text of the legislation, the Department of Public Safety would be required to implement a comprehensive training program and the alert infrastructure by July 1, 2027.
The proposed system mirrors the operational mechanics of the existing Amber Alert network. Upon activation, the Purple Alert would mandate that law enforcement agencies contact media outlets, notify on-duty officers, and transmit reports to jurisdictions in surrounding counties. The bill defines the scope of developmental disabilities broadly, covering mental, cognitive, intellectual, and brain injuries.
Legislative Impact
The progression of House Bill 1840 signifies a procedural effort to close existing gaps in emergency alert protocols for vulnerable adults who may not qualify for Silver Alerts or Amber Alerts. By codifying specific response measures for individuals with developmental disabilities, state officials aim to leverage rapid community dissemination to mitigate the high risks associated with these specific missing person cases.
