Reps. Thomas, Gross Celebrate Unanimous House Passage of The Joshua Alert System Meant to Support Families with Missing Autistic Children

COLUMBUS — State Reps. Cecil Thomas (D-Cincinnati) and Jennifer Gross (R-West Chester) Wednesday celebrated the unanimous passage of House Bill (HB) 359, the Joshua Alert.

“Joshua, this bill is for you. And it’s for every family with a child with autism. I believe that Joshua, and all the other children we've lost too soon, are watching over us, smiling from heaven, knowing that their families cared, their communities cared. Today, we the Ohio legislature are saying that “we care” as we take action to try and prevent more families from enduring the same pain,” said Rep. Thomas. “I want to thank the entire House for their unanimous support of this bill, and I look forward to similar action in the Senate.”

“Today, with the passage of House Bill 359 — the Joshua Alert — we honor the life of six-year-old Joshua Al-Lateef Jr. and turn unimaginable tragedy into meaningful action. This legislation ensures that when a child with autism or a developmental disability goes missing, every second counts. By mobilizing law enforcement, first responders, and our communities faster, we can save lives and spare other families the heartbreak Joshua’s family endured. I’m deeply grateful to my colleagues for standing with us to protect Ohio’s most vulnerable children,” said Rep. Gross.

EDITOR’S NOTE: A picture of Rep. Thomas with Joshua’s family and Rep. Thomas’ legislative aide is attached to this press release. Courtesy: Ohio House Democrats.