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Bill

SCR 35

Urging the Governor to recognize the SOS Hand Signal.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Tyler Johnson and 1 co-sponsor

Indiana resolution urges Governor to officially recognize the SOS hand signal as a distress gesture for abuse and trafficking victims seeking hidden help.

Returned to the Senate
#resolutions;stateandlocalgovernment
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Bill Summary · SCR 35

Legislative bill overview

SCR 35 is a concurrent resolution urging Indiana's Governor to officially recognize the SOS hand signal—a gesture made by placing the thumb and index finger on both sides of the forehead to form an "S" shape—as a distress signal. The resolution seeks state-level acknowledgment and promotion of this non-verbal communication method for situations where victims cannot safely call for help.

Why is this important

The SOS hand signal has gained attention as a tool for domestic violence, human trafficking, and sexual assault victims to discreetly signal for help in situations where speaking openly could put them at immediate risk. Official state recognition could increase public awareness, encourage training in schools and businesses, and potentially save lives by providing a widely understood emergency communication method.

Potential points of contention

  • Effectiveness and awareness: Critics question whether a non-standardized hand gesture will actually reach sufficient numbers of people to be effective, or whether it may create false confidence in victims
  • Implementation concerns: The resolution lacks specifics on how recognition would translate into public education, training, or enforcement mechanisms
  • Alternative solutions: Some argue resources would be better spent on traditional emergency systems, hotlines, and direct intervention rather than relying on bystanders recognizing a subtle gesture

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

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