A bill that might result in quicker apprehension of those who assault peace officers is headed for the Governor’s desk.

Sen. George Runner, author of Senate Bill 839, known as “Blue Alert,” announced Thursday that the bill has passed the Senate and is now headed to the Governor’s office where it’s expected to be signed into law.

The bill mandates the use of the existing statewide Amber Alert notification system when a peace officer has been killed, seriously wounded or assaulted with a firearm and the suspect has fled the scene.

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“When an officer is shot, quick apprehension of the shooter is critical to avoid further violence – such as the tragic killing of four Oakland peace officers last year,” said Runner who also authored California’s Amber Alert.

The plan would use the existing Amber Alert system allowing officials to send out the Blue Alert with a license plate number or a vehicle and suspect description to help authorities locate a shooter. California will be one of first states to implement the system statewide.

Investigators could immediately broadcast information through the Emergency Broadcast System on television and radio and on the freeway signs to alert public.

Blue Alert is supported by the California State Sheriffs’ Association, which represents all 58 California county sheriffs; the California Broadcasters’ Association; California Peace Officers’ Association; Association for Los Angeles Deputy Sheriffs; and the Police Officers’ Research Association of California.