This publication provides information about the National Ashanti Alert Network, which was authorized by the Ashanti Alert Act of 2018.
The Ashanti Alert Act of 2018 (Pub L. 115-401) was signed into law on December 31, 2018. It authorizes the U.S. Attorney General to establish a national communications network to enable and help facilitate regional and local search efforts for missing individuals who fall outside the scope of America’s Missing: Broadcast Emergency Response (AMBER) Alerts and Silver Alerts. The legislation aims to encourage, enhance, and integrate the development of Ashanti Alert Plans and enhance communications among participating states, territories, and tribes in locating missing adults. Participation in this effort is voluntary. The act aims to ensure that states, territories, and tribes that are voluntarily implementing an Ashanti Alert Plan have access to guidance and resources. Ashanti Alerts, facilitate rapid dissemination of information to law enforcement agencies, media, and the public about adults who have been reported missing, along with suspect information in cases of suspected abduction. Ashanti Alerts can be transmitted via wireless devices and through the Emergency Alert System (EAS). The Ashanti Alert Act criteria focus individuals over the age of 17; missing adults with special needs or circumstances; and missing adults who are endangered or have been involuntarily abducted or kidnapped.