HOUSE DEMOCRATS NEWS RELEASE

The House of Representatives on Wednesday unanimously voted to advance legislation updating the state’s Silver Alert notification system that alerts the public about missing seniors.

House Bill 197, would broaden the scope of the program to allow Silver Alerts for anyone over the age of 50 who displays signs or symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia, cognitive decline, or impairment. Currently, only individuals who show a “clear indication” of suffering from Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia can receive a Silver Alert.

“We all know the feeling of worrying about the safety of an aging loved one,” said lead sponsor Rep. Joseph Sanchez (D-Alcalde). “By expanding eligibility for Silver Alerts, we can better protect all of New Mexico’s seniors who may be experiencing mental decline.”