Bill > H4349

This bill establishes supported decision-making agreements for certain adults with disabilities in Massachusetts. The key provisions include: 1. Defining supported decision-making as a process of supporting and accommodating adults with developmental, intellectual, or physical disabilities in making life decisions without impeding their self-determination. 2. Allowing these adults to voluntarily enter into supported decision-making agreements with one or more supporters who can assist them in accessing information, communicating decisions, and advocating for their wishes. 3. Providing a process for terminating or revoking the supported decision-making agreement, including the ability for the court to do so if the adult has been abused, neglected, or exploited by the supporter(s). 4. Requiring the state to establish a training program on supported decision-making for supporters and decision-makers. 5. Mandating that school districts and charter schools inform students and families about supported decision-making as an alternative to guardianship during the transitional planning process. 6. Requiring Individualized Education Program (IEP) teams to inform students and families about supported decision-making and assist in establishing a supported decision-making plan if the student and family are interested.

Joint Committee on Children, Families and Persons with Disabilities (J)

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/191/H4349