STATEHOUSE (May 15, 2024) – A new public notification similar to Indiana's Amber Alert will soon help first responders locate missing and at-risk veterans thanks to efforts supported by local lawmakers.
A new law, passed during the 2024 legislative session, will create a Green Alert to notify the public that 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 the state's successful Amber Alert for missing children and Silver Alert for missing seniors.
"Our service members make great sacrifices to keep Indiana and the country safe, and sometimes their experience has a profound impact on their mental health," said State Rep. Jim Lucas (R-Seymour), a veteran. "This alert will activate an immediate public notice when a veteran or active member goes missing, so that we can increase our chances of bringing them home safe."
A Green Alert could be issued by the Indiana State Police for veterans, active service members, Indiana National Guard members and reservists within 48 hours of the individual being reported missing. Like other alerts, the notification will include a description and last known location of the individual and if they are considered at-risk to themselves or others.
"Some service members can face unique challenges after returning home and may experience mental health issues that greatly impact their lives," said State Rep. Ryan Lauer (R-Columbus), a member of the House Veterans Affairs and Public Safety Committee. "The Green Alert will help bring attention to these heroes that go missing when facing a crisis, making it more likely for them to get help quickly."
According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Indiana's veteran suicide rate is higher than the national average. In 2021, nearly 140 Hoosier veterans died by suicide and over 6,000 died nationwide.
"Unfortunately, data has shown that many service members suffer from mental health disorders, like PTSD, and an early, accurate notification is vitally important to locating them and returning them home safely," said State Rep. Jennifer Meltzer (R-Shelbyville). "By notifying the public, media and first responders that one of these heroes is missing and at-risk, we could have a better opportunity to save a life and reunite families."
For 24/7, confidential crisis support, veterans or their loved ones can dial 988 then press one or send a text to 838255 for the Veterans Crisis Line. Callers do not have to be enrolled in Veteran Affairs benefits or health care to connect. Hoosiers can also visit veteranscrisisline.net and join a chat with a VA responder.
House Enrolled Act 1021 passed unanimously out of the Indiana House of Representatives and Senate, and received support from the Military/Veterans Coalition of Indiana, the American Legion, Disabled American Veterans, Veterans of Foreign Wars and the National Guard Association of Indiana.
-30-
State Rep. Ryan Lauer (R-Columbus) represents House District 59,
which includes a portion of Bartholomew County.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
State Rep. Jim Lucas (R-Seymour) represents House District 69,
which includes portions of Bartholomew, Jackson, Scott and Washington counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
State Rep. Jennifer Meltzer (R-Shelbyville) represents House District 73,
which includes portions of Bartholomew, Decatur, Jennings and Shelby counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
