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HD 2309

An Act establishing a Purple Alert system in the commonwealth

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Jack Lewis

Massachusetts establishes a Purple Alert system to notify public about missing or endangered adults via media and transportation channels when law enforcement determines urgent alerts necessary.

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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HD 2309

Legislative bill overview

HD 2309 establishes a "Purple Alert" system in Massachusetts to notify the public about missing or endangered adults, similar to existing Amber Alert (children) and Silver Alert (seniors) systems. The bill creates a framework for rapid dissemination of information about at-risk adults through media, transportation systems, and other channels when law enforcement determines a public alert is warranted.

Why is this important

Many at-risk adults fall through existing alert gaps—they're older than Amber Alert age limits but younger or more cognitively capable than typical Silver Alert criteria. A Purple Alert system could improve recovery rates and public safety by leveraging widespread notification infrastructure to locate vulnerable missing persons quickly, potentially saving lives.

Potential points of contention

  • Definitional ambiguity: What criteria determine "endangered adult"? Overly broad definitions could trigger alert fatigue; overly narrow ones defeat the purpose
  • Resource allocation: Funding for system implementation, training, and 24/7 operations across municipalities may be substantial and responsibility for costs unclear
  • Privacy and accuracy concerns: Rapid public alerts about individuals require careful vetting to avoid false information, reputational harm, or misuse of the system

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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