ATLANTA – State Representative Carl Gilliard (D-Savannah) applauds the recent unanimous House passage of House Bill 465, the Autism Missing Person Alert System Act, legislation he sponsored which would allow for autism to be added to the list of eligible conditions to activate the Mattie’s Call statewide alert system to assist in the search for a missing individual with autism.
“Yesterday marked a significant step forward in our commitment to the safety and welfare of individuals with autism and their families,” said Rep. Gilliard. “The Autism Missing Person Alert System Act is modeled after Mattie’s Law, which has proven effective in protecting vulnerable individuals in our communities. This alert system is designed to ensure a swift and coordinated response when a person with autism goes missing, helping to reunite families as quickly as possible.”
HB 465 would add autism spectrum disorder to the list of eligible conditions to activate the Mattie’s Call statewide alert system for missing disabled adults. Activation of the alert system for those with autism spectrum disorder would include guidance to local law enforcement to prioritize waterways and public roadways in their search and to disclose distinctive autism-related behaviors that could identify the missing person. The goal of HB 465 is to effectively communicate and alert the public to the status of a missing individual with autism and ultimately, activate the community to assist with the search for the missing person.
“I am grateful for the bipartisan support this bill has received,” added Rep. Gilliard. “The collaboration among my colleagues, advocacy groups and law enforcement officials highlights the importance of this initiative. Our shared goal is to enhance the safety of those who need our support the most. Together, we can make Georgia a safe and supportive place for everyone. This alert system is not just a legislative win; it is a commitment to compassion and community responsibility. House Bill 465 is a piece of legislation that promises to save lives one at a time.”
With this legislation, Rep. Gilliard seeks to advocate for the needs of families, individuals with disabilities and social welfare initiatives throughout the community.
HB 465 now awaits consideration by the Senate. If passed by the Senate, the legislation would then be sent to the Governor for his final decision.
For additional information about the Autism Missing Person Alert System Act or to schedule an interview with Rep. Gilliard, please contact his office at 404-656-7859.
The full text of HB 465 may be found here.
Representative Carl Gilliard represents the citizens of District 162, which includes a portion of Chatham County. He was first elected to the House of Representatives in 2016 and currently serves as Secretary of the Creative Arts & Entertainment. He also serves on the Appropriations Subcommittee on Economic Development, Insurance, Natural Resources & Environment, Reapportionment and Redistricting and Transportation committees.
###