Relative to National Missing Children’s Day.
Assembly Concurrent Resolution 24 is a nonbinding legislative resolution that proclaims May 25, 2025, as National Missing Children’s Day in California and marks the 42nd anniversary of the first observance of the day. The resolution frames the observance around the ongoing problem of missing and abducted children, citing California and national missing-children statistics, disparities affecting Black and Native American children, increases in online enticement of minors, and the risk of sex trafficking among youth who run away from child welfare care.
The resolution also recognizes the historical origin of National Missing Children’s Day, first observed by the U.S. Department of Justice in 1983 in memory of Etan Patz, and references the partnership between the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention and the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. In addition to the proclamation, it urges state agencies, law enforcement, local governments, schools, community organizations, families, and individuals to educate minors and adults about preventing child abduction, reporting threats to personal safety, and connecting victims with available resources.
ACR 24 does not create or amend state law, impose regulatory requirements, or appropriate funds. Its legal effect is limited to an official legislative proclamation and a call for public awareness and participation by government entities and community groups. The measure primarily affects symbolic recognition and public outreach efforts related to child safety, missing children, abduction prevention, and victim support.
The bill appears to have been received very positively and without controversy. It moved through the Legislature on consent calendars and passed unanimously in recorded votes, indicating broad bipartisan support. The tone of the resolution is solemn and supportive, emphasizing public awareness, victim remembrance, and appreciation for law enforcement, nonprofits, caregivers, and families involved in recovery efforts.
There is little to no evident opposition in the available record. The resolution’s factual recitals highlight serious issues such as racial disparities in missing-child cases, online enticement, and sex trafficking, but these are presented as reasons for the proclamation rather than as disputed policy questions. Because the measure is ceremonial and nonregulatory, there were no notable points of contention over legal mandates, fiscal impact, or implementation.