State Rep. Kathy Schmaltz this week voted to create a Silver Alert system for missing seniors and vulnerable adults, a plan she helped advance as chair of the House Families and Veterans Committee.

Schmaltz, R-Jackson, said House Bill 4362 instructs the Michigan State Police to implement a mobile alert system using existing federal technology. The system would allow first responders to send rapid alerts to mobile phones across the state when seniors or vulnerable adults are reported missing, working much like the successful Amber Alert system.

“Putting a Silver Alert system in place will give families hope in their most desperate moments,” Schmaltz said. “It will make sure vital information reaches our communities quickly, where it can save lives and reunite families.”

Currently, police agencies can issue wireless emergency alerts to broadcasters and newspapers, but not directly to the public. HB 4362 removes that barrier and allows notifications to go directly to people’s phones. The legislation uses existing resources and does not require the creation of a new department, commission, or additional state funding.

The plan passed the House with broad bipartisan support. It now advances to the Senate for further consideration.