Bill > HB4331

This bill establishes the Ebony Alert Act, which creates a specific alert system for women aged 18-65 who are reported missing under suspicious circumstances and are considered at risk, developmentally disabled, cognitively impaired, or abducted. The bill defines an "Ebony alert" as a notification system designed to rapidly disseminate information about missing individuals to radio and television stations within Michigan. Law enforcement agencies are required to notify the Department of State Police and request an alert when they have a reasonable belief that a qualifying individual meets the alert criteria. The bill also creates an Ebony Alert Fund to support the maintenance and operation of the alert system, with money from state appropriations and other sources. Additionally, the bill includes penalties for making false reports, with potential misdemeanor charges including up to one year in prison, a fine of up to $1,000, or both, and the possibility of being ordered to pay the costs of responding to the false report. The alert system will be established and maintained by the Department of State Police, with activation only in accordance with departmental policies, and is intended to help quickly locate and assist women who may be in dangerous situations.

Government Affairs

https://legislature.mi.gov/Bills/Bill?ObjectName=2025-HB-4331