Bill > HB217

This bill, known as the Finding and Identifying with NamUs Data (FIND) Act, amends Ohio law to enhance the process of reporting and tracking missing persons by requiring law enforcement agencies to enter information about missing persons into the National Missing and Unidentified Persons System (NamUs), a federal database designed to help locate missing individuals. The bill establishes detailed requirements for law enforcement agencies when handling missing person reports, including mandatory data entry into NamUs within thirty days if the person has not been located. It covers missing persons of different age groups, with specific provisions for minors under 18 and individuals between 18 and 21 years old. The legislation requires law enforcement to gather comprehensive information about missing persons, such as physical descriptions, personal details, and potential indicators of foul play. Additionally, the bill mandates that agencies promptly update the system when a missing person is found and remove their information from law enforcement databases. The goal of the bill is to improve the chances of locating missing individuals by creating a standardized, centralized reporting process that facilitates information sharing across jurisdictions and enhances the effectiveness of missing person investigations.

Military Affairs and Security

https://www.legislature.ohio.gov/legislation/136/hb217