No Time to Lose: Arizona’s New Alert System Races to Find Missing Vulnerable Loved Ones

Arizona has taken a major step toward protecting its most vulnerable residents with the launch of the Seek and Find Alert System, a statewide upgrade to how law enforcement handles cases involving missing individuals with cognitive disabilities.

Signed into law this week, the new system replaces the former Silver Alert program and significantly expands who qualifies for an emergency alert. Rather than limiting alerts to older adults, the updated system includes individuals of any age who have cognitive disabilities—including autism, dementia, and other developmental conditions. Law enforcement agencies are now required to act immediately, without delay due to bureaucracy or prior missing episodes.

“When a vulnerable person goes missing, there’s no time to waste,” said Representative Khyl Powell, who led the effort behind the new law. “Whether it’s a child with autism or an adult with dementia, families deserve to know that every resource is being deployed—immediately—to bring their loved one home.”

The change comes amid growing national concern over the safety of individuals with cognitive disabilities who may wander or become disoriented. According to experts, people with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia are at particularly high risk of going missing, and their chances of serious harm increase the longer they remain lost. Autism and other developmental disabilities can also create challenges in communicating with rescuers or navigating unfamiliar environments.

Arizona joins a growing list of states that have launched or updated alert systems to address this urgent issue. In Florida, the Purple Alert system was established to locate missing adults with mental, cognitive, or developmental disabilities. Georgia has Mattie’s Call, which focuses on locating missing elderly or disabled individuals. Connecticut recently introduced its own version of the Purple Alert, while Mississippi and Maryland have adopted similar measures to ensure alerts aren’t limited by age alone. Virginia’s programs include both a Senior Alert and a Critically Missing Adult Alert for adults with mental health or cognitive challenges.

The Seek and Find Alert System builds on these best practices by requiring consistent training for law enforcement officers and dispatchers, ensuring agencies across Arizona use the alert system effectively and consistently. This means families can count on a coordinated response no matter where the incident occurs in the state.

The law received widespread support and reflects a broader commitment to public safety and compassion for those who are unable to protect themselves. With this new system in place, Arizona is better equipped to respond quickly when time is critical—and to help bring loved ones home safely.