ARIZONA STATE SENATE
Phoenix, Arizona
Honors the Arizona Silver
Haired Legislature (ASHL).
On May 23, 1994, H.C.R. 176
passed in the U.S. House of Representatives by a majority vote that encouraged
and authorized the convening of the Sliver Haired Congress in Washington D.C.
and, on October 6, 1994, S.C.R. 66 was passed unanimously that also authorized
the Silver Haired Congress in Washington D.C.
The Silver Haired Legislature has been established in a majority of the states, Arizona included. Members of the ASHL represent the 30 legislative districts in Arizona. While the ASHL is not statutorily established, the ASHL has participated in sessions of the ASHL with the permission of legislative leaders, beginning in October 1999 with the inaugural session.
The ASHL is a nonpartisan body comprised of citizens who are 60 years and older and elected by their peers. The mission of the ASHL is to:
1. Identify various social, economic and political issues and concerns affecting the lives of all Arizonans.
2. Provide seniors with a valuable forum to discuss policy alternatives and possible solutions for those issues while acknowledging the limitations imposed by the budget constraints, possible tax implications and fiscal impacts.
3. Annually submit its recommendations to the Governor, the President of the Arizona Senate and the Speaker of the Arizona House of Representatives.
4. Demonstrate the benefits of direct participation in the legislative process while fostering a better understanding and awareness of legislative procedure among individuals of all ages.
5. Promote effective government for all Arizonans.
In 2002, the National Silver Haired Legislature is scheduled to hold its national convention in Phoenix, Arizona.
1. States that the Arizona State Senate supports the ASHL and proclaims its willingness to work with the individuals who comprise the ASHL.
2. Authorizes the President of the Senate to choose to present issues to the ASHL for deliberation.
3. Allows the ASHL to actively seek private funding and corporate sponsorship.
4. Becomes effective upon passage by the Senate.
Prepared by Senate Staff
February 19, 2002