Bill > HB1736

This bill modernizes and centralizes procedures for reporting and investigating missing persons in Washington State. It amends existing law to require that when a person has been missing for 30 days or when criminal activity is suspected, law enforcement must file a report with the Washington State Patrol's Missing and Unidentified Persons Unit, collect DNA samples from the missing person and their family, and enter the case into the national crime information center system. The bill establishes a new requirement for the Washington State Patrol to create and maintain a public statewide missing persons website that will include details such as the person's name, physical description, and photograph, and allow citizens to share information about missing persons for at least 30 days. The website will also interface with local law enforcement agencies and national missing persons systems. Additionally, the bill repeals previous statutes related to missing persons information websites, consolidating these responsibilities under the Washington State Patrol. The goal is to improve communication, information sharing, and the chances of locating missing individuals by creating a more comprehensive and accessible reporting and tracking system.

Budget and Finance, Housing and Urban Affairs

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=1736&Year=2025&Initiative=false