The Silver Haired Legislature (SHL) is a formally elected body of citizens 60 years of age or older that promote conscientious legislative advocacy for Missouri’s older adults.

All members are volunteers who serve without pay.  Currently there are no term limits so a delegate may be re-elected to an unlimited number of terms.  The elected delegates meet several times at Aging Matters in Cape Girardeau and participate in a mock legislative session patterned after the MO General Assembly.  The session is in Jefferson City in the fall of each year.  Many of the activities take place in the Senate and House chambers of the Capitol building.

The SHL delegates work all year as advocates for senior issues.  They are updated on proposed legislation and stay in touch with the legislators.  Many of the legislators contact the SHL delegates asking for their input on proposed legislation.

There are 10 Area Agencies on Aging (AAA) in Missouri and SHL delegates are elected from each AAA area.  This brings about 150 seniors together in Jefferson City to present proposals, debate issues, and choose the top five for which they will advocate during the year.

If you are interested in becoming a SHL delegate, you should file a Declaration of Candidacy with the Aging Matters office.  This statement must arrive in the office by close of business on April 30.  You may obtain an application by contacting our office at 1-800-392-8771 or locally at 335-3331 ext. 113 or pick one up at your local senior center.

There are five Representative and one Senate seat up for election this year. The May 7 election will be held at the area senior centers during regular business hours.  Contact our office to learn more about this very important program.