Friends -

Last week, after 13 years of trying, the Senate finally passed legislation I introduced to help families find their missing loved ones.

It’s called Billy’s Law, and it is an amazing story about one Connecticut family’s persistence. We still need your help to get it through the House before the end of the year, but before I ask for your help, let me share how we pulled this off and why it matters.

In 2004, Billy Smolinski went missing out of the blue in Waterbury. It's a harrowing tale of intrigue. His truck, keys, wallet and dog were all left behind with no explanation and few clues about what happened.

Billy's parents, Jan and Bill, hit roadblock after roadblock searching for their missing son. They were victimized twice. Once by the disappearance and possible murder of Billy and then again by a system that didn't allow them to participate in the search.

They convinced me 15 years ago, back when I was a new member of the House, to find a solution. So I got to work and introduced legislation to require the federal government to add all information of missing persons and unidentified remains to a public database that loved ones could search. That’s Billy’s Law.

For the next decade and a half, I’ve tried to find a path to pass it. I got it through the House then watched the Senate fail to act. Some years, we couldn’t find enough Republican support.

But this year, my friend Rep. Jahana Hayes and I decided to try again. I found a lead Republican sponsor in the Senate, and we found a new vocal ally in Gabby Petito’s father.

Now, we just need the House to take it up and pass it before this session ends. That’s where I need you to help get this across the finish line and to President Biden’s desk.

Please add your name to tell the House to pass Billy’s Law. This is important, and your voice will make a difference to help us finally get more information for families about their missing loved ones.

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This bill will help thousands of families participate in the search for their missing loved ones.

The story and victory belong to a handful of citizens determined to get their government to act. This moment would not have happened without their persistence, and I’m proud that they asked me to play a role in their efforts.

Every best wish,

Chris Murphy

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