Aiden’s Law Targets Missing Vulnerable Adults

Pennsylvania lawmakers are shining a spotlight today on a new public safety proposal aimed at protecting some of the Commonwealth’s most vulnerable residents. A press conference will be held this morning in the Main Capitol Rotunda. Rep. Robert Leadbeter, joined by advocates and fellow legislators, will provide an update on House Bill 2102, also known as “Aiden’s Law.”

The legislation would establish a Pennsylvania Purple Alert System, designed to quickly mobilize the public and law enforcement when an individual with certain cognitive, intellectual, developmental, or neurological conditions goes missing. Supporters say the system would close a critical gap in Pennsylvania’s existing alert framework and save valuable time in situations where every minute matters.

House Bill 2102 was formally introduced yesterday, December 15, and referred to the House Judiciary Committee. Today’s press conference marks the first public push to build awareness and momentum behind the proposal.

Building on Familiar Alert Systems Pennsylvanians Already Trust

Aiden’s Law is modeled after alert systems the public already recognizes and responds to. Most Pennsylvanians are familiar with Amber Alerts for abducted children, and many are aware of advisories used to locate missing seniors or at-risk veterans. Proponents of HB 2102 argue that individuals with certain disabilities or neurological conditions deserve the same rapid-response approach.

Under the bill, the existing Pennsylvania Amber Alert System Law would be updated to formally include three alert systems: the Pennsylvania Amber Alert System, the Missing Endangered Person Advisory System (MEPAS), and the newly created Pennsylvania Purple Alert System. The updated framework would authorize and direct the Pennsylvania State Police to establish and maintain these alert systems under one coordinated structure.

Who the Purple Alert System Would Protect

House Bill 2102 defines a “qualifying individual” as someone with a diagnosed intellectual, developmental, cognitive, or neurological condition that places them at special risk of harm or injury if they go missing. The bill specifically includes individuals with autism spectrum disorder, traumatic brain injuries, and similar impairments.

The legislation also includes individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia when they are under the age of 60, recognizing that younger individuals with these conditions may not fit common public assumptions but can still face serious danger if disoriented or unable to communicate.

Supporters say these situations are often urgent and complex, and that families and caregivers need an alert mechanism that moves quickly and broadly.

Rapid Public Notification as a Lifesaving Tool

The core purpose of the Purple Alert System would be speed. Under HB 2102, the Pennsylvania State Police would be responsible for issuing alerts that promptly notify the general public, appropriate law enforcement agencies, and other public entities when a qualifying individual goes missing.

Advocates argue that the fastest way to locate a missing person is often through public awareness—someone who sees an alert may recognize a person at a gas station, on public transportation, or walking along a roadway. The sooner the alert reaches the public, the better the chance of a safe recovery.

Today’s press conference emphasized that the Purple Alert System is not intended to replace existing alerts, but to complement them by ensuring the right tool is used for the right situation.

Encouraging the Public to Help Without Fear of Liability

House Bill 2102 also strengthens legal protections for members of the public who step in to help. The bill expands existing Good Samaritan immunity provisions to include individuals who provide, attempt to provide, or help obtain assistance for someone who is the subject of a Purple Alert.

Under the proposed changes, individuals acting in good faith would be immune from civil liability, except in cases involving intentional harm, gross negligence, or willful or reckless conduct. Supporters say this provision is critical to encouraging people to act quickly and confidently when they believe they can help.

The goal, lawmakers stressed today, is to remove hesitation and empower people to do the right thing without fear of legal consequences.

Next Steps for Aiden’s Law

House Bill 2102 is now before the House Judiciary Committee, where it will be reviewed as lawmakers consider its policy and public safety implications. The bill includes a provision that would allow the law to take effect 60 days after enactment, signaling an intent to move quickly if approved.

Supporters of Aiden’s Law say awareness is essential—not only for passing the bill, but for ensuring the system is effective once implemented.

As discussion around Aiden’s Law moves forward, backers argue the question is simple: when someone at heightened risk goes missing, Pennsylvania should have every possible tool available to bring them home safely.