As used in this chapter, unless the context requires a different meaning:
"Media" means print, radio, television, and Internet-based communication systems or other methods of communicating information to the public.
"Missing person with autism" means any person (i) whose whereabouts are unknown; (ii) who has been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder as defined in § 38.2-3418.17; and (iii) whose disappearance poses a credible threat as determined by law enforcement to the safety and health of the person and under such other circumstances as deemed appropriate by the Virginia State Police.
"Missing Person with Autism Alert" means the notice of a missing person with autism provided to the public by the media or other methods under a Missing Person with Autism Alert Agreement.
"Missing Person with Autism Alert Agreement" means a voluntary agreement between law-enforcement officials and members of the media whereby a person with autism will be declared missing, and the public will be notified by media outlets, and includes all other incidental conditions of the partnership as found appropriate by the Virginia State Police.
"Virginia Missing Person with Autism Alert Program" or "Program" means the procedures and Missing Person with Autism Alert Agreements to aid in the identification and location of a missing person with autism.
2020, c. 19; 2021, Sp. Sess. I, c. 189.