Last week the U.S. House of Representatives passed legislation this week supported by the Assisted Living Federation of America to help law enforcement quickly locate missing seniors. The National Silver Alert Act (H.R. 632), authored by Congressman Lloyd Doggett (D-TX) creates a voluntary national system to search for missing seniors patterned on the Amber Alert program which is used to find missing children. Under the bill, a new Silver Alert Coordinator at the Department of Justice will consult with other federal agencies to develop best practices for Silver Alert programs. The bill authorizes up to $10 million in state grants to develop and maintain Silver Alert programs.
“We commend Congressman Doggett for his leadership. This legislation will help protect seniors living with Alzheimer’s Disease and other forms of dementia,” said ALFA President & CEO Richard P. Grimes.
“When it comes to the safety of missing seniors, there is no silver bullet, but one meaningful way of helping is through the National Silver Alert,” said Rep. Lloyd Doggett, a senior member of the House Ways and Means Committee, in a press release. “As more Americans approach their golden years, National Silver alert can provide some reassurance. Reuniting missing seniors with their families requires a rapid, united response. What’s missing from current efforts is sufficient federal support-this bill closes that gap.”
