Relates to technology systems used for locating missing children with developmental disabilities

1 Co-sponsor

• Tony Avella

BILL NUMBER:S7917

Title of bill

An act relating to technology systems used for locating missing children with developmental disabilities

Purpose

To review information technology systems used for locating missing children for the purpose of making recommendations on the creation of a statewide communication program.

Summary of specific provisions

Section 1 of the bill is the legislative intent.

Section 2 provides that the commissioner of the division of criminal justice services, in consultation with the commissioner of the office for people with disabilities shall review information technology systems used for locating missing children with disabilities including those that have been established by local governments for locating missing persons for the purpose of making recommendations on the creation of a statewide communication program that could be utilized by entities currently operating or interested in establishing locater systems. The review shall include but not be limited to:

1. a survey of all current information technology systems used by local governments including global, positioning systems, radio termination technology, telemetry and satellite positioning systems;

2. an analysis of appropriate means for coordination of information sharing amongst entities that currently utilize locator systems;

3. a standardized process to assist local governments and other entities interested in establishing a locator, system;

4. a process for synchronizing locator systems throughout the state; and

5. appropriate response procedures by law enforcement when conducting search and rescue operations involving a child with developmental disabilities.

Section 3 provides that such review and recommendations shall be published in a report and provided to the governor, temporary president of the senate and speaker of the assembly no later than 120 days after the effective date of this act.

Section 4 provides that the superintendent of the department of financial services, in consultation with the commissioner of the department of health shall conduct a study to review health insurance coverage of technology systems used for locating children with disabilities when the treating physician or licensed health care provider deems it necessary for the health and safety of the child. In conducting the study the department shall consider current coverage for such systems; the impact coverage would have on premiums, the cost to the state; and to what extent coverage should include rate of use, repair and maintenance, and monthly subscriber fees.

Section 5 is the effective date.

Justification

The tragedy of Avonte Oquendo who wandered away from his school never to be round alive highlights the continuing need to find ways to protect children with disabilities.

Wandering poses a significant danger for children with developmental disabilities including children with autism. Timing plays a critical role in preventing wandering incidents and wandering-related deaths of children with autism or developmental disabilities.

Wandering knows no geographical boundaries. The coordination of search And rescue protocols that involve locator devices work most effectively When systems are coordinated. A statewide communication program would Further support and enhance local governments' efforts to locate missing Children.

This bill will provide information necessary to make recommendations for the creation of a statewide communication program that could be utilized by entities operating locator systems to facilitate the coordination of locating missing children with disabilities.

Additionally it is important to review health insurance coverage of These locator systems when the treating physician or licensed health Care provider deems it necessary for the health and safety of the child And ascertain the financial impact of insurance coverage for such Systems on the insurance companies, the state and insured.

Prior legislative history

New bill

Fiscal implications

Minimal

Effective date

This act shall take effect immediately.