Silver-Haired Legislature

The Silver Haired Legislature, or SHL as it is often called, is a formally elected body of citizens 60 years of age and older that promote conscientious legislative advocacy for Missouri's older adults. All members are volunteers who serve without pay. There are three senators and twelve representatives from each of the ten area agencies on aging for a total of 30 senators and 120 representatives. The delegations meet to elect officers and begin to ascertain the needs of seniors in their districts. Proposals and resolutions are then drawn up and prepared for presentation at the statewide conference in the fall.

The SHL meets for three days in the fall to conduct a model legislative session. At that time, members present, debate and vote on a pre-prepared docket of proposals and resolutions that concern legislation, which affects the lives of not only the elderly but all Missouri citizens. From the docket, five proposals having the highest priority are selected as the group’s main focus for the upcoming year.

SHL Delegates convene at the Capitol in Jefferson City each January for a regular meeting of the Board of Directors as well as a chance to meet with legislators and discuss SHL’s past achievements and current priorities.

The SHL provides an opportunity for seniors to become involved in the legislative process and support issues on behalf of Missouri’s elderly. For more information or questions, contact: SHL@health.mo.gov.