Bill would create “senior alert” in Hawaii, similar to Amber alert system

by Larry Geller

A bill planned for introduction in the 2010 legislative session by Representative Cynthia Thielen would create a “Silver Alert” program, similar to an Amber Alert, for missing senior citizens.

According to the draft bill, the Silver Alert system would be similar to the existing MAILE AMBER (Minor Abducted in Life-threatening Emergency/America's Broadcast Emergency Response) alert program and operated under the direction of the office of the Attorney General.

The system could be activated by a county police department when it receives notice of a  missing senior citizen from the family or legal guardian who can document that the missing person has an impaired mental condition.

The bill will be taken up by the legislative Kupuna Caucus. Information on the Kupuna Caucus can be obtained from the office of Senator Suzanne Chun Oakland, (808) 586-6130. Rep. Thielen’s office can be reached at (808) 586-6480.