HB 2461 Pennsylvania House · 2023-2024 Regular Session

An Act providing for the Ebony Alert System; imposing duties on the Pennsylvania State Police; and imposing a penalty.

This bill establishes the Ebony Alert System, a program operated by the Pennsylvania State Police to quickly notify the public and other agencies when specific young people of color go missing. The system is designed for individuals between the ages of 12 and 25 who are missing under suspicious circumstances, are at risk due to disabilities, or may be victims of human trafficking. When activated, law enforcement can request alerts through various media channels, while the Department of Transportation can assist with electronic signs. To fund this initiative, the bill imposes a $25 fee on individuals convicted of kidnapping offenses, with the money directed to the State Police. Additionally, the legislation prohibits unauthorized use of the alert system and sets a $5,000 penalty for violations.
Bill status in committee 1 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Jun 2024
Committee Review
Floor Vote
Governor
Introduced Jun 27, 2024 Last action Oct 22, 2024
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Full legislative history

Actions timeline

Total actions
4
Key actions
1
Committee
2
Oct 22, 2024
Lower · Passed
Reported as committed
lower
Jun 27, 2024
Committee
Referred to Children & Youth
lower
1 primary · 12 co-sponsors

Sponsors