SPRINGFIELD – When a person with developmental disabilities goes missing, time is of the essence – but existing alert systems do not always address their unique needs. That will change Jan. 1, thanks to a new law from State Senator Paul Faraci that creates the Golden Search Awareness Program, ensuring law enforcement, families and communities have the tools to respond effectively.

“Illinois currently uses AMBER Alerts, EMPA Alerts and Silver Alerts, but we need a specialized alert system for vulnerable populations – especially individuals who may not understand the dangers they’re in or can’t effectively communicate,” said Faraci (D-Champaign). “Implementing the Golden Search Awareness Program ensures we have a specific protocol in place to notify the public and police when at-risk Illinoisans go missing.” 

Faraci’s law establishes a Golden Search Task Force, which will work to implement a statewide awareness program – in coordination with the Endangered Missing Person Advisory – to account for the specific needs of individuals with developmental disabilities. This initiative will help educate communities, law enforcement and organizations that support individuals with disabilities, making certain they know how to recognize and respond when someone with developmental disabilities goes missing.

For families of individuals with disabilities, this law is more than just policy – it is peace of mind. By improving public awareness and coordination across agencies, Senate Bill 1548 is ensuring Illinois is better prepared to respond when vulnerable individuals go missing.

“When an individual with developmental disabilities goes missing, we have to act with urgency, and this law will ensure we bring people home as quickly as possible,” said Faraci.

Senate Bill 1548 takes effect Jan. 1, 2026.