Bill > S978

This bill aims to improve medical decision-making by establishing a process for appointing a surrogate decision-maker when a person lacks the capacity to make healthcare decisions and does not have a valid advance directive or court-appointed guardian. The bill defines key terms like "incapacitated person" and "qualified individual," outlines the order of priority for surrogate decision-makers, and provides protections for healthcare providers who rely on the surrogate's decisions. The bill also allows for the removal or override of a surrogate decision-maker in certain circumstances. Overall, the goal is to ensure timely medical decisions can be made on behalf of incapacitated individuals without involving the courts, while still providing safeguards and a process for resolving disputes.

Justice

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/192/S978