Bill > HB4696

This bill amends the Guardianship Assistance Act by expanding and clarifying the definition of "relative" in the context of guardianship for children. The new definition now includes individuals who are either related within the fifth degree by blood, marriage, or adoption (which encompasses a wide range of family connections like half-siblings and extended family), or individuals who have a strong emotional tie to the child even if not biologically related. For non-biologically related individuals, the determination of a strong emotional connection can be made by the Department of Health and Human Services, or in the case of an Indian child, by the child's tribe. The bill removes the previous definition of "legal custodian" and makes several technical adjustments to the numbering of definitions. The purpose appears to be to provide more flexibility in identifying potential guardians for children who need placement, recognizing that family and supportive relationships are not always defined strictly by biological ties. The bill will only take effect if a companion bill (House Bill 4697) is also enacted into law, creating a legislative tie bar to ensure coordinated implementation.

Military Affairs and Security

https://legislature.mi.gov/Bills/Bill?ObjectName=2025-HB-4696