House Approves Capito Co-Sponsored Silver Alert Grant Program

Press Release

The House of Representatives yesterday considered legislation co-sponsored by Rep. Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV) to approve a new Silver Alert Grant Program, with the National Silver Alert Act (HR 6064) passing by voice vote last evening.

The Silver Alert Program authorized by the legislation would be administered by the Department of Justice to help coordinate and fund notification systems designed to locate missing individuals suffering from Alzheimer's and other dementia-related illnesses.

"This is excellent news for our seniors," said Capito. "Just like the Amber Alert System has been effective in helping to protect our young people, the Silver Alert Program can help protect our seniors and those facing Alzheimer's and dementia."

"With passage of this bill, we can help communities establish a Silver Alert Programs at the local level and ensure effective coordination across all levels of government to help provide piece of mind for senior citizens and caregivers."

The National Silver Alert Act would establish a national communications network to help coordinate Silver Alert notifications between state and federal officials. It will also provide grant funding for states to establish or improve their Silver Alert notification systems.

Estimates suggest that nearly 50,000 West Virginians may suffer from some form of dementia-related illness.

The bill must now go to the Senate for consideration.

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