Bill > HB48

This bill establishes the Ebony Alert System, a specialized notification mechanism designed to help locate missing Black youth between ages 12 and 25, particularly young women and girls, under suspicious or potentially dangerous circumstances. The alert can be activated by a local law enforcement agency when they determine that the missing individual might be in danger, such as potentially being a victim of trafficking, abduction, or experiencing health or environmental risks. When a law enforcement agency requests an Ebony Alert, the Alabama State Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) will evaluate the specific factors of the case, such as the individual's age, potential disabilities, and the circumstances of their disappearance. If ALEA concurs, they will activate the alert, which may include issuing a be-on-the-lookout alert, electronic flyer, or changeable message sign (particularly if a vehicle is involved in the incident). The bill encourages radio, television, cable, satellite, and social media platforms to help disseminate the alert information. The Ebony Alert System aims to improve the chances of safely recovering missing Black youth by quickly spreading critical information to the public. The act is set to become effective on October 1, 2026.

Justice

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