Bill > HB1535

This bill amends North Dakota's alert notice system by introducing a new "feather alert notice" specifically designed to help locate missing indigenous individuals who are believed to be at imminent risk of serious bodily injury or death. The bill expands the existing alert system to include a dedicated alert for indigenous people, similar to existing Amber, Blue, and Silver alerts. It requires the Bureau of Criminal Investigation and Highway Patrol to develop an operational plan for these alerts, which includes using multiple communication channels like emergency alert systems, digital highway signs, and social media platforms. The bill also mandates that alerts can be broadcast in indigenous languages when possible and requires the Indian Affairs Commission to serve as a primary liaison between tribal, state, and federal agencies for these alerts. Additionally, the bill requires annual reporting on the effectiveness of the new alert system and establishes a process for public meetings with tribal leaders to discuss the implementation of these alert notices. The legislation aims to improve response and awareness for missing indigenous individuals by creating a more targeted and comprehensive alert mechanism.

Budget and Finance, Government Affairs, Justice

https://ndlegis.gov/assembly/69-2025/regular/bill-overview/bo1535.html