Rhode Island Passes PURPLE Alert for Missing Adults with Disabilities

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — The Rhode Island General Assembly approved legislation on Tuesday aimed at finding missing adults with disabilities. The bill, known as the “PURPLE Alert,” establishes a system to aid in locating adults whose physical or neurological disabilities pose immediate safety concerns.

The legislation comes after a recent incident in Cranston, where a missing adult was found after several days of searching. Rhode Island State Senator Todd Patalano highlighted the urgent need for such an alert program tailored to adults who rely on caregivers.

“Our recent experience in Cranston showed clearly that we need an alert program that is tailored to the specific needs of adults with more serious disabilities in our community,” Patalano said. He is also a Major in the Cranston Police Department.

The PURPLE Alert shares similarities with existing Silver and Amber Alerts. Autism Project Executive Director Joanne Quinn emphasized the importance of the alert system in fostering community reactions. “An alert catches people’s attention and prompts action. It gives urgency to a situation and when the community reacts quicker, more people will be found sooner,” Quinn stated.

In addition, she noted the necessity for training public safety personnel to better interact with members of the autistic community and others with disabilities. This ensures that those in need of help feel safe when approached.

The legislation also mandates that the Rhode Island Department of Emergency Management Agency review alert policies annually and provide training to relevant agencies. The bill is now being sent to the governor for final approval.