Bill Overview
Title: Kevin and Avonte's Law Reauthorization Act of 2022
Description: This bill reauthorizes the Missing Americans Alert Program through FY2027. The program provides grants for locally based, proactive programs to prevent wandering and locate missing individuals with dementia or developmental disabilities.
Sponsors: Rep. Waters, Maxine [D-CA-43]
Target Audience
Population: people with dementia or developmental disabilities
Estimated Size: 13000000
- The bill reauthorizes a program focused on individuals with dementia or developmental disabilities, highlighting these groups as the primary target population.
- Dementia is common in older adults, affecting millions worldwide. Globally, over 50 million people are affected by dementia according to the World Health Organization.
- Developmental disabilities encompass a wide range of conditions; the CDC estimates about 1 in 6 children aged 3-17 years have one or more developmental disabilities, and these conditions can persist into adulthood.
- The program aims to help locate missing individuals from these groups, indicating that their wellbeing will be directly impacted by the program’s efforts.
Reasoning
- To simulate the impact of this policy, I have chosen a diverse range of individuals from both the primary target groups (those with dementia or developmental disabilities) and some individuals indirectly related or outside the core group for control purposes.
- The policy budget allows for significant but targeted interventions. It is unlikely to reach everyone at once but can create substantial benefits for directly involved families and communities.
- Those most affected will likely see their Cantril wellbeing scores improve due to reduced stress and safety concerns.
- Individuals outside of the direct scope still benefit through a reduced communal burden and a better social supportive environment.
Simulated Interviews
retired (Miami, FL)
Age: 72 | Gender: female
Wellbeing Before Policy: 4
Duration of Impact: 20.0 years
Commonness: 12/20
Statement of Opinion:
- I sometimes feel worried because I get confused and forget where I am. It's scary.
- My family tells me they might get some help to keep track of me if I wander, which could be a relief for us all.
Wellbeing Over Time (With vs Without Policy)
| Year | With Policy | Without Policy |
|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | 5 | 4 |
| Year 2 | 6 | 4 |
| Year 3 | 6 | 4 |
| Year 5 | 7 | 3 |
| Year 10 | 8 | 2 |
| Year 20 | 8 | 2 |
teacher (Dallas, TX)
Age: 45 | Gender: male
Wellbeing Before Policy: 6
Duration of Impact: 10.0 years
Commonness: 8/20
Statement of Opinion:
- Our son is 13 and sometimes runs off unexpectedly. It's a constant source of anxiety.
- If our community receives funding, we might get tools or programs to help keep him safe.
Wellbeing Over Time (With vs Without Policy)
| Year | With Policy | Without Policy |
|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | 7 | 6 |
| Year 2 | 7 | 6 |
| Year 3 | 8 | 6 |
| Year 5 | 8 | 5 |
| Year 10 | 9 | 4 |
| Year 20 | 9 | 4 |
software engineer (Los Angeles, CA)
Age: 34 | Gender: female
Wellbeing Before Policy: 5
Duration of Impact: 15.0 years
Commonness: 10/20
Statement of Opinion:
- I'm constantly on edge about Uncle Joe wandering off, and it affects my ability to focus on work and family.
- This policy could make local systems better equipped to handle such cases, easing our burden.
Wellbeing Over Time (With vs Without Policy)
| Year | With Policy | Without Policy |
|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | 6 | 5 |
| Year 2 | 7 | 5 |
| Year 3 | 8 | 5 |
| Year 5 | 9 | 4 |
| Year 10 | 9 | 4 |
| Year 20 | 9 | 3 |
retired teacher (Boston, MA)
Age: 63 | Gender: male
Wellbeing Before Policy: 5
Duration of Impact: 15.0 years
Commonness: 6/20
Statement of Opinion:
- I'm trying to remain independent, but I know I could wander off and not find my way back home.
- Support systems in place could help me stay safer and more confident in daily activities.
Wellbeing Over Time (With vs Without Policy)
| Year | With Policy | Without Policy |
|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | 6 | 5 |
| Year 2 | 7 | 4 |
| Year 3 | 7 | 4 |
| Year 5 | 8 | 3 |
| Year 10 | 8 | 3 |
| Year 20 | 7 | 2 |
HR manager (Chicago, IL)
Age: 52 | Gender: female
Wellbeing Before Policy: 6
Duration of Impact: 20.0 years
Commonness: 5/20
Statement of Opinion:
- The stress of ensuring my brother's safety when he's out is always in the back of my mind.
- Local programs could take a load off our family and make caring easier.
Wellbeing Over Time (With vs Without Policy)
| Year | With Policy | Without Policy |
|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | 7 | 6 |
| Year 2 | 8 | 6 |
| Year 3 | 8 | 6 |
| Year 5 | 8 | 5 |
| Year 10 | 9 | 5 |
| Year 20 | 8 | 4 |
student (San Francisco, CA)
Age: 23 | Gender: other
Wellbeing Before Policy: 7
Duration of Impact: 5.0 years
Commonness: 10/20
Statement of Opinion:
- I manage fine most of the time, but I get anxious in new places where it's easy to get lost.
- Knowing people care about keeping track of me can boost my confidence.
Wellbeing Over Time (With vs Without Policy)
| Year | With Policy | Without Policy |
|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | 7 | 7 |
| Year 2 | 7 | 7 |
| Year 3 | 8 | 7 |
| Year 5 | 8 | 7 |
| Year 10 | 8 | 6 |
| Year 20 | 7 | 6 |
firefighter (New York, NY)
Age: 41 | Gender: male
Wellbeing Before Policy: 8
Duration of Impact: 0.0 years
Commonness: 18/20
Statement of Opinion:
- I see the potential benefits for those who need these services, which would enhance community trust.
- It might not impact me directly, but it matters to support vulnerable neighbors.
Wellbeing Over Time (With vs Without Policy)
| Year | With Policy | Without Policy |
|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | 8 | 8 |
| Year 2 | 8 | 8 |
| Year 3 | 8 | 8 |
| Year 5 | 8 | 8 |
| Year 10 | 8 | 8 |
| Year 20 | 8 | 8 |
graphic designer (Atlanta, GA)
Age: 29 | Gender: female
Wellbeing Before Policy: 8
Duration of Impact: 5.0 years
Commonness: 15/20
Statement of Opinion:
- While I'm not directly affected, the policy reinforces the importance of community safety.
- It could lead to more engagement and participation, which is wonderful for inclusion.
Wellbeing Over Time (With vs Without Policy)
| Year | With Policy | Without Policy |
|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | 8 | 8 |
| Year 2 | 8 | 8 |
| Year 3 | 8 | 8 |
| Year 5 | 8 | 8 |
| Year 10 | 8 | 8 |
| Year 20 | 8 | 8 |
retired nurse (Seattle, WA)
Age: 78 | Gender: female
Wellbeing Before Policy: 3
Duration of Impact: 20.0 years
Commonness: 3/20
Statement of Opinion:
- Losing my way is a fear that hovers over my days.
- If help arrives faster or proactively, it would ease my mind significantly.
Wellbeing Over Time (With vs Without Policy)
| Year | With Policy | Without Policy |
|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | 5 | 3 |
| Year 2 | 6 | 3 |
| Year 3 | 7 | 3 |
| Year 5 | 7 | 2 |
| Year 10 | 7 | 2 |
| Year 20 | 6 | 1 |
landscaper (Phoenix, AZ)
Age: 60 | Gender: male
Wellbeing Before Policy: 6
Duration of Impact: 15.0 years
Commonness: 7/20
Statement of Opinion:
- Worrying about my sister is part of daily life; reducing this would mean so much.
- Such policies mean recognition and help, potentially saving lives.
Wellbeing Over Time (With vs Without Policy)
| Year | With Policy | Without Policy |
|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | 7 | 6 |
| Year 2 | 7 | 6 |
| Year 3 | 8 | 6 |
| Year 5 | 8 | 5 |
| Year 10 | 9 | 5 |
| Year 20 | 8 | 4 |
Cost Estimates
Year 1: $11000000 (Low: $9000000, High: $13000000)
Year 2: $11000000 (Low: $9000000, High: $13000000)
Year 3: $11000000 (Low: $9000000, High: $13000000)
Year 5: $11000000 (Low: $9000000, High: $13000000)
Year 10: $11000000 (Low: $9000000, High: $13000000)
Year 100: $11000000 (Low: $9000000, High: $13000000)
Key Considerations
- The need to assist vulnerable populations, especially individuals with dementia and developmental disabilities, through community-support measures.
- The value of preventive measures in reducing emergency response needs and improving individual safety.
- The scalability and adaptability of programs based on local needs and capabilities.