Rep. Thomas: Rep. Thomas Announces Unanimous Committee Passage of Joshua Alert Legislation
COLUMBUS — State Reps. Cecil Thomas (D-Cincinnati) today announced that House Bill (HB) 359, the Joshua Alert, received a unanimous vote in the Ohio Senate Armed Services, Veterans Affairs and Public Safety Committee. The legislation now advances to the Senate Chamber for a floor vote.
HB 359 would establish a statewide alert system to assist in locating missing children with autism, ensuring faster response times and greater public awareness in emergency situations. The bill was inspired by the life and legacy of Joshua Al-Lateef Jr., whose story has galvanized support for stronger protections for vulnerable children across Ohio.
“This unanimous vote is a powerful step forward in protecting some of our most vulnerable children,” said Rep. Thomas. “The Joshua Alert is about ensuring that when a child with autism goes missing, families are not left waiting and wondering. We are creating a system that responds with urgency, coordination, and care.”
Rep. Thomas recognized the advocacy of Jonisa Cook, Joshua’s mother, whose testimony and continued leadership have been instrumental in advancing the bill.
“Jonisa Cook has turned unimaginable loss into purpose,” added Rep. Thomas. “Her courage continues to move this legislation forward, and today’s vote brings us one step closer to making Joshua’s legacy a lifesaving reality for families across Ohio.”
Organizations and advocates who supported HB 359 include Ability Matters, Ohio Association of County Boards of Developmental Disabilities, Ohio Developmental Disabilities Council, and the Children's Defense Fund, among other supporters committed to protecting children and strengthening support systems for families across Ohio.
HB 359 now awaits consideration before the full Ohio Senate, where lawmakers will have the opportunity to advance this critical legislation to the next stage.
Today's Armed Services, Veterans Affairs and Public Safety Committee can be viewed here.