Bill > S0745

This bill establishes a new law called the "Help Find Missing Americans Act" that requires wireless service providers to release certain telecommunications information to account holders when a missing persons report has been filed. Under the proposed legislation, an account holder can submit a written request to access location information, phone numbers, and wireless data usage for the missing person's device, limited to a 12-hour window before and after the reported disappearance. The wireless service provider must verify the account holder's identity and the existence of an active missing persons report, and then provide the requested information to both the account holder and law enforcement within 30 days, unless law enforcement specifically requests the information not be released. The bill also mandates that providers retain detailed records of such requests for three years and protects them from civil or criminal action if they act in good faith. Additionally, the bill establishes criminal penalties for misusing the information, including fines ranging from $500 to $3,000 and potential imprisonment from 30 days to two years, depending on whether it is a first or subsequent offense. Finally, the State Law Enforcement Division is required to provide recommendations to the General Assembly by January 1, 2027, on ways to improve law enforcement's response to missing persons cases.

Justice

https://www.scstatehouse.gov/billsearch.php?billnumbers=0745&session=126&summary=B