Bill > HB1840

This bill establishes "RJ's Law," creating a statewide "Purple Alert System" within the Department of Public Safety to help locate missing persons with developmental disabilities, defined as conditions like intellectual disabilities, brain injuries, or other cognitive or physical impairments not related to substance abuse, whose disappearance poses an immediate danger. The Department of Public Safety, in collaboration with various state agencies and local entities, will develop a training program for law enforcement that includes crisis intervention techniques to better handle individuals with developmental disabilities, and establish policies for immediate dissemination of information and enhanced response to such missing person cases, including media alerts and communication with surrounding law enforcement agencies. Additionally, the bill enacts "Mason's Law," allowing individuals with health conditions or disabilities that impair communication with law enforcement to voluntarily apply for a designation on their driver's license or vehicle registration, which will be accessible to law enforcement through the Missouri Uniform Law Enforcement System (MULES) to ensure appropriate interaction during traffic stops or other encounters. The bill also expands the responsibilities of the Missouri Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing to establish a statewide communication access services program to improve compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act by creating a registry of service providers, setting standards, and providing resources and financial assistance for communication accommodations.