STATEHOUSE (April 30, 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 Hancock County lawmakers.
A new law, which State Rep. Chris Jeter (R-Fishers) co-authored, passed during the 2024 legislative session and 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.
"Often times our veterans and active service members, struggle with their mental health while in service or returning home," said Jeter, a veteran of the U.S. Navy. "This new tool will help our community and first responders come together to make sure we're there to provide support in case of an emergency, and get these Hoosiers connected with the resources they need."
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.
"The Green Alert could be gamechanger when it comes to collecting information and being able to locate a missing service member or veteran," said State Rep. Cory Criswell (R-Middletown). "We want our struggling heroes to know that we care about them and will do everything we can to get them the help that they need."
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.
"Indiana's new Green Alert law is vital for Hoosiers to help quickly locate and support veterans who are considered at-risk," said State Rep. Bob Cherry (R-Greenfield). "This public alert is a promise to our veterans that we will look for them, and help them get the help and support they need."
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.
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State Rep. Bob Cherry (R-Greenfield) represents House District 53,
which includes portions of Hancock and Madison counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
State Rep. Cory Criswell (R-Middletown) represents House District 54,
which includes portions of Hancock, Henry, Rush and Shelby counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
State Rep. Chris Jeter (R-Fishers) represents House District 88,
which includes portions of Hamilton, Hancock, Madison and Marion counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
