Reps. Thomas, Gross Celebrate Unanimous 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) today celebrate the unanimous passage of House Bill (HB) 359, the Joshua Alert, in the House Children and Human Services Committee.

“This bill will save lives. Jonisa Cook, you will save lives. Joshua, you will save lives. The passage of this bill stands not only as closure for Joshua’s family but also as a beacon of hope for families with children like Joshua, who can now rest assured that their community and law enforcement will be there for them,” said Rep. Thomas. “I am truly honored to carry this bill alongside my joint sponsor and deeply grateful to the committee for their diligent work in ensuring this bill moved through so swiftly and with unanimous support. I look forward to seeing this bill on the House floor next week and will continue to push for it to reach the governor’s desk by Joshua’s anniversary in November.”

“I'm deeply grateful for the passage of HB 359 through the House Children and Human Services Committee. This is an important step toward ensuring the safety of children with autism and other developmental disabilities. I am hopeful that, in Joshua Al-Lateef Jr.'s memory, this alert system will save lives and prevent other families from experiencing such a tragic loss," said Rep. Gross.

HB 359 is set to be on the floor next week.