Rep. Cockley's Bipartisan Legislation Regarding Missing People Database Passes House Floor

COLUMBUS — State Rep. Christine Cockley (D-Columbus) Wednesday celebrated the unanimous passage of bipartisan House Bill (HB) 217 from the Ohio House of Representatives. HB 217 mandates law enforcement agencies to enter information about missing persons into NamUs, a national database, within 30 days of a report being filed.  

“This bill is for every missing Ohioan and their family. By ensuring timely entry into NamUs, we remove systemic barriers in finding loved ones. I am grateful to my colleagues for passing this bill and call on the Senate to do the same,” said Rep. Cockley. 

HB 217 ensures every tool is utilized to reunite families with missing loved ones. NamUs provides a singular resource hub for law enforcement, medical examiners, coroners, and investigative professionals. This bill gives law enforcement another resource in solving cold cases and providing closure to grieving families.  

The bill now heads to the Senate for consideration. 

EDITOR’S NOTE: A photo of Rep. Cockley with Andy Chapman’s family is attached to this press release. Courtesy: Ohio House Democrats.