What is the Silver Legislature?
The Silver Haired Legislature (SHL) is composed of 40 Senators and 160 Representatives. All are over age 60 and are elected from the same districts as members of the General Court. The SHL meets annually for a State House Conference in November to develop legislation that responds to the needs and concerns of the elder residents of Massachusetts. In addition, SHL members work throughout the year with members of the General Court to advocate for bills submitted by SHL members and adopted as priority legislation at the State House Conference.
What is the Purpose of the Silver Haired Legislature?
To provide the opportunity for elder citizens of Massachusetts, through the election of Silver Haired Legislators, to identify priority concerns and to develop legislative proposals that will insure the dignity and independence of all elderly persons in the Commonwealth.
What is the Vision and Mission of the Massachusetts Silver Legislature?
To be an effective non-partisan and independent Massachusetts organization helping older adults improve their quality of life through education and advocacy.
To provide an educational opportunity and advocacy forum for older adults to make recommendations on State and Federal aging priorities, including legislation in Congress and Massachusetts.
How often does the Sliver Legislature meet?
The Silver Legislature meets to develop legislation to meet the needs of elder residents. Members also work throughout the year to advocate for bills submitted and priority legislation.
Who is eligible to be a candidate for the Silver Legislature?
Any person age 60 or older who is a registered voter and a resident of the district he/she will represent is eligible to be candidate for the Silver Legislature. Candidates may run for the Senate or the House of Representatives. Their term may run until a successor is elected to replace the current candidate. Elections are held in the candidates’ districts and members are elected by their local peers. Elections may be conducted by local Councils on Aging or other suitable locations. When there is no contested election, a candidate may remain in office until a successor is elected. New candidates may be appointed by the current Silver Legislature Senate President until such time as there is a contested office and a successor is elected. When a district is not available or a person is not age 60 or older, he or she may serve as a Silver Legislature Associate.
How should one contact the Massachusetts Silver Legislature?
People may contact the Massachusetts Silver Legislature by telephone (781-944-1191) or by email at masilverlegislature@gmail.com.