Tri-City Sun

State Representatives Jerry Neyer and Angela Rigas have led a bipartisan effort to update Michigan’s Amber Alert System. Their proposed legislation, House Bills 4517 and 4518, passed unanimously in the House Families and Veterans Committee with a 10-0 vote.

The bills aim to revise the criteria for activating Amber Alerts and improve how alerts are distributed across the state. The changes are intended to enhance child safety in Michigan.

“I’m thankful to my colleagues on both sides of the aisle for uniting together and supporting our efforts to make real, necessary changes to our Amber Alert System,” said Neyer, R-Shepherd. “I think unanimous support like this proves that there are some issues that rise above the political fray. We can all agree that we must have an updated and responsive Amber Alert system to aid families in their time of greatest need.”

The legislative push follows a tragedy in Isabella County on August 21, 2024, when six-year-old Rowan Milford Morey was killed by his biological father in what authorities believe was a murder-suicide. Both were found dead from gunshot wounds inside a camper after Rowan’s mother requested a welfare check when her son was not returned as scheduled. Existing state law did not allow for early activation of emergency response systems, which delayed police intervention.

Rigas’ bill—referred to as The Rowan Act—would allow Michigan State Police to activate an Amber Alert if they believe a child is at risk, giving law enforcement more flexibility during emergencies. Neyer’s bill would expand alert notifications by using social media platforms.

“Rowan’s life ended way too soon, but getting this legislation passed and signed into law in his honor will give families and law enforcement the resources to prevent tragedies like his from ever happening again,” said Rigas, R-Caledonia. “There is nothing more important than saving a child’s life, and our Amber Alert System should reflect that.”