Silver Haired Legislature

The Oklahoma Silver Haired Legislature was created in 1981 to educate seniors in the legislative process and to highlight their needs to the Oklahoma Legislature.

Candidates for office must be sixty years or older, and be registered to vote in their Oklahoma precinct. Twenty-two senators, forty-four representatives and sixty-six alternates are elected for two-year terms in districts which correspond to the state's planning and service areas.

The Oklahoma Legislature supports the efforts of the Silver Haired Legislature and the Alumni Association on behalf of Oklahoma's senior citizens. It is the senior wisdom and legislative expertise that makes the Silver Haired Legislature a truly exhilarating and rewarding experience.

Activities of Silver Haired Legislature
The Oklahoma Silver Haired Legislature meets at the Capitol in Oklahoma City every other year, following the model of the Oklahoma Legislature and using the Capitol facilities.

A two-day caucus or training session is held during the alternate year.

The Silver Haired Legislature convenes in October each year for a three-day session. Legislative leadership is elected from the 66 delegates, including President Pro-Tempore and Floor Leader in the Senate, and Speaker and Speaker Pro Tempore in the House. Eight committee chairs are also elected.

More than 20 bills are screened in committees and debated in chambers. The bills which pass the joint session are prioritized and submitted to the Oklahoma Legislature.

The Silver Haired Legislature has been instrumental in the passage of many laws benefiting older Oklahomans - and the entire state. Such legislation includes:

• Living Wills (Advanced Directives rectives)

• Public transportation revolving fund

• Omnibus Reconciliation Bill

• Long Term Care Ombudsman Bill

• Required training for nursing home aides

• Spousal Impoverishment Act

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