Bill > S06865

This bill establishes an "Ebony Alert" system specifically designed to help locate missing Black youth between the ages of 12 and 25 who are in potentially dangerous situations. The system would be implemented by the state division in cooperation with various agencies, including the department of transportation and law enforcement, to quickly disseminate information about missing Black youth who are at risk, have disabilities, or have been abducted. The alert system would include state agencies, broadcasters, and private entities that volunteer to help spread urgent public information. When activated, the system would send alerts to media outlets with detailed information about the missing person, including characteristics that might help in their recovery, and instructions for anyone with relevant information to contact law enforcement. The alerts can be issued across state borders if necessary, and would be terminated either when the youth is found or after a predetermined notification period. The bill includes specific guidelines for determining when an Ebony Alert can be issued, such as assessing the potential danger to the missing person, and ensures that the privacy of the missing individual is protected in accordance with health information privacy laws. The system aims to improve response times and increase the chances of safely locating missing Black youth by creating a targeted, coordinated alert mechanism.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S6865