Reps. Thomas, Gross Deliver Bipartisan Testimony for Alert System Meant to Support Families with Autistic Children

COLUMBUS — State Reps. Cecil Thomas (D-Cincinnati) and Jennifer Gross (R-West Chester) Tuesday provided sponsor testimony on House Bill (HB) 359, the Joshua Alert. The two were joined by Joshua’s mother, Jonisa Cook, as they presented this critical piece of legislation in committee that clarifies that if a missing child has autism spectrum disorder or another developmental disability, the local law enforcement agency must notify the statewide emergency alert program immediately. 

“Joshua’s story is heartbreaking—but it must not be in vain. With House Bill 359, we have a chance to transform tragedy into meaningful change. The Joshua Alert will ensure that when a vulnerable child with autism or a developmental disability goes missing, Ohio’s emergency systems respond with urgency, clarity, and compassion. Every minute matters. This legislation is not about blame—it’s about building a faster, smarter, and more inclusive response system to protect those who cannot always protect themselves. Most of all, it’s about honoring Joshua’s legacy by making sure no other family has to endure the same pain,” said Rep. Thomas.

In November 2024, 6-year-old Joshua Al-Lateef Jr. was found dead in a pond near his West Chester home. With Jonisa Cook’s support, Reps. Thomas and Gross are hoping to help other families with children who have autism.

“In Joshua’s memory, we are proposing the Joshua Alert, a statewide alert system tailored for missing children with autism and other developmental disabilities. Supported by numerous local communities, the Joshua Alert aims to strengthen Ohio’s response by mobilizing law enforcement and emergency personnel immediately upon a report of a missing child with a diagnosed developmental disability, leveraging existing alert infrastructure to notify the public more quickly,” said Rep. Gross.

During this hearing process, committee members and the public will have the opportunity to hear directly from those who knew and loved Joshua, as well as others who have experienced similar tragedies. 

The Chair has confirmed that HB 359 will be up for proponent testimony next week. 

Tuesday’s Children and Human Services committee can be viewed here.