STATEHOUSE (March 15, 2024) – According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, veterans are more likely to die by suicide after going missing, and, unfortunately, Indiana's veteran suicide rate is higher than the national average. In 2021, nearly 140 Hoosier veterans died by suicide and over 6,000 nationwide.
The governor recently signed House Enrolled Act 1021 into law to create a Green Alert in Indiana. It will notify the public when a veteran or military service member is reported missing and believed to be at risk of being hurt or hurting themselves. The alert will function similarly to Amber and Silver alerts for missing children and seniors.
When the new law takes effect in July, a Green Alert will be issued for veterans, active service members, Indiana National Guard Members and reservists within 48 hours of the individual being reported missing. Like other alerts, the Green Alert will provide a description and last known location of the individual and if they are considered a risk to themselves or others.
This law is an important tool as Indiana seeks to address the mental health crisis facing our veterans. Veterans in crisis can call 988 and press 1 or text 838255 for immediate, confidential help 24/7 from a trained crisis specialist.
Our community is home to many veterans who sacrificed so much to protect our freedoms. This new law sends a strong message that they have our support, and we will do everything we can to provide help and hope to those who need it most. If I or my office can be of any assistance, please reach out by email at h54@iga.in.gov or call 317-232-9600.
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State Rep. Cory Criswell (R-Middletown) represents House District 54,
which includes portions of Hancock, Henry, Rush and Shelby counties.
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