OLYMPIA, WA — A bill introduced in the Washington State Legislature would expand the state’s missing person alert system and clarify when law enforcement may use certain investigative tools to help locate missing endangered individuals.
Senate Bill 6070, titled Supporting the recovery of missing persons, was introduced during the 2026 legislative session and referred to the Senate Law & Justice Committee. The proposal is sponsored by several lawmakers and is currently under committee consideration.
If passed, the bill would formally add new alert designations to Washington’s Endangered Missing Person Advisory system, including Ebony Alerts, Missing Indigenous Person Alerts, and Purple Alerts. These alerts would be used to assist in locating missing people who fall into specific categories, such as Black individuals, Indigenous individuals, people with disabilities, and vulnerable adults, alongside existing Silver Alerts for older adults.
The legislation also broadens the definition of a “missing endangered person” to include individuals believed to be at risk due to mental health crises, developmental disabilities, dementia, or suicidal ideation. State Patrol resources would continue to coordinate alert distribution with local, state, tribal, and media partners.
In addition to alert system changes, SB 6070 updates several sections of state law governing law enforcement procedures. The bill would allow courts to issue search warrants and authorize emergency use of tools such as pen registers, trap-and-trace devices, and cell-site simulator devices when necessary to help locate a missing endangered person. The measure outlines timelines for court approval and requires the deletion of data if authorization is denied or expires.
The bill also lists factors courts may consider when determining whether law enforcement action is justified under a community caretaking function. These factors include whether a person left behind essential belongings, has a history of mental health concerns, or is believed to be unable to care for themselves safely.
SB 6070 further amends the public records law to exempt certain information gathered during missing endangered person investigations when disclosure could pose a safety risk. The exemptions would apply only in limited circumstances tied to protecting life, physical safety, or property.
The bill received its first reading on Jan. 13, and a public hearing was held in the Senate Law & Justice Committee on Jan. 20. An executive session was scheduled for Jan. 22. Further legislative action will determine whether the proposal advances to the full Senate for consideration.
The bill is available through the Washington State Legislature and remains subject to amendment as it moves through the legislative process.
