Older Kansans interested in politics and public policy issues are encouraged to register to become a candidate for the Kansas Silver Haired Legislature (KSHL).
“The KSHL is an important voice for older Kansans and caregivers as our state’s population continues to age,” said Julie Govert Walter, executive director of the North Central-Flint Hills Area Agency on Aging (NC-FH AAA). “Each year, KSHL delegates learn political processes as they identify and discuss issues, develop and craft bills and resolutions and present priority bills to Kansas Legislators.”
To be eligible, a candidate must:
a. Be age 60 or over when filing for candidacy.
b. Reside in the county and/or district in which candidacy is sought.
c. Be registered to vote in the State of Kansas
d. Be willing to participate in all activities required and expected of the KSHL including attending regional and state meetings and the annual legislative session that normally occurs in Topeka the first week of October.
e. File for candidacy by obtaining, completing and returning required registration forms to their Agency on Aging. The filing deadline for the NC-FH AAA region is Feb. 12, 2021.
Registration forms and more information are available by calling the North Central-Flint Hills Area Agency on Aging at 800-432-2703.
A total of 125 delegates are eligible to serve for two years in the unicameral KSHL. Those elected are responsible for meeting with older adults and caregivers in their counties/districts, attending scheduled meetings, advocating for their legislation, and testifying at hearings on KSHL legislation. Fifteen people currently serve as KSHL delegates in the NC-FH AAA region.