Bill > S475

This bill introduces minimum training requirements for guardians and guardians ad litem who serve incompetent persons in North Carolina, ensuring that these legal representatives are adequately prepared to support vulnerable individuals. Specifically, the bill mandates that within six months of appointment, guardians must complete comprehensive training covering legal duties, the rights of incompetent persons, available resources, medical terminology, and reporting procedures. Similarly, guardians ad litem must undergo training on legal responsibilities, due process rights, available resources, medical terminology, entitlements, and psychological considerations related to incompetent persons. The bill allows clerks discretionary power to partially or completely waive these training requirements based on the guardian's experience, education, specific duties, and the needs of the incompetent person. Additionally, the bill requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services to adopt rules concerning guardianship responsibilities and training. These new requirements will take effect on January 1, 2026, and will apply to guardian appointments made on or after that date, with the aim of improving the quality of care and representation for individuals deemed legally incompetent.

https://www.ncleg.gov/BillLookUp/2025/S475