Rep. Thomas Stands with Jonisa Cook to Promote Joshua Alert System to Support Families of Missing Autistic Children

COLUMBUS — State Rep. Cecil Thomas (D-Cincinnati) today heard proponent testimony on bipartisan House Bill (HB) 359, the Joshua Alert. The legislation is designed to create an alert system to help locate missing children with autism. Rep. Thomas stood alongside Jonisa Cook, the mother of Joshua Al-Lateef Jr., as she shared the heartbreaking story of the night her son went missing on November 20, 2024. Her testimony underscored how this legislation is not only critical, but potentially lifesaving.

“I share my story with you not to reopen wounds, but to honor Joshua’s memory and to help prevent this tragedy from repeating itself. Joshua’s life was filled with love and light. And though he is no longer physically with us, I believe that his legacy can live on through this bill-through the lives it saves and the families it supports,” said Jonisa Cook.

Rep. Thomas expressed his admiration for Jonisa’s strength during the testimony.

“Let this bill be Joshua’s legacy. I commend Jonisa on her strength and resilience during testimony on Tuesday. She stands not only for Joshua, but for all families who could face similar situations unless something is done. I am also grateful to Chair White for swiftly moving this bill through committee, and we hope to pass it by the one-year anniversary of Joshua’s passing this November,” said Rep. Thomas.

Organizations and advocates who submitted proponent testimony to the Armed Services, Veterans Affairs and Public Safety Committee included the Fraternal Order of Police, the Children’s Defense Fund, the Ohio Developmental Disabilities Council, mothers of children with autism, and other supporters.

Today’s Senate Armed Services, Veterans Affairs and Public Safety Committee can be viewed here.