A bill

to amend the South Carolina Code of Laws by amending Section 23-3-330, relating to THE Endangered Person Notification System, so as to provide the system also shall provide for the dissemination of information regarding missing persons believed to be suffering from a developmental disability such as autism spectrum disorder.

Be it enacted by the General Assembly of the State of South Carolina:

SECTION 1.Section 23-3-330 of the S.C. Code is amended to read:

Section 23-3-330.(A) The Endangered Person Notification System is established within the Missing Person Information Center. The purpose of the Endangered Person Notification System is to provide a statewide system for the rapid dissemination of information regarding a missing person who is believed to be suffering from dementia, a developmental disability such as autism spectrum disorder, or some other cognitive impairment.

(B) If the center receives a report that involves a missing person who is believed to be suffering from dementia, a developmental disability such as autism spectrum disorder, or some other cognitive impairment, for the protection of the person from potential abuse or other physical harm, neglect, or exploitation, the center shall issue a notification providing for the appropriate dissemination of information regarding the person.

(C) The center shall adopt guidelines and develop procedures for issuing notifications for missing persons believed to be suffering from dementia or some other cognitive impairment, provide education and training to local law enforcement agencies, and encourage radio and television broadcasters to participate in the notifications.

(D) The center shall consult with the Department of Transportation and develop a procedure for the use of overhead permanent changeable message signs to provide information on a missing person who is believed to be suffering from dementia, a developmental disability such as autism spectrum disorder, or some other cognitive impairment when the person's vehicle and license tag information is available. The Department of Transportation shall utilize current protocol for the content, length, and frequency of any message to be placed on an overhead permanent changeable message sign.

SECTION 2.This act takes effect upon approval by the Governor.

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