STATEHOUSE (May 10, 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 State Reps. Lorissa Sweet (R-Wabash) and Craig Snow (R-Warsaw).
A new law, which 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.
"The brave men and women who serve often face new battles when they return home," Sweet said. "Struggles with mental health are a real concern and we want them to know they're not alone. In missing persons cases, the Green Alert can help first responders locate them more quickly and make sure they get connected to help."
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.
"Statewide alerts are great tools to help public officials locate and help those in need, and now we can work to do more for our veterans in crisis," Snow said. "Our service members both past and present face unique challenges when they return to civilian life, and we want them to know that we care and will support them, especially in their darkest of times."
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.
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. Lorissa Sweet (R-Wabash) represents House District 50,
which includes all of Huntington County, and portions of Miami, Wabash and Wells counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
State Rep. Craig Snow (R-Warsaw) represents House District 22,
which includes portions of Kosciusko and Wabash counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
