Bill > HB4729

This bill modifies Michigan's Mental Health Code regarding the appointment of guardians for individuals with developmental disabilities by establishing a more structured process for selecting guardians. The bill prioritizes professional guardians, defined as licensed individuals or organizations under the occupational code, and requires that guardians be either a licensed professional guardian or a suitable person willing to serve if no licensed professional is available. Starting two years after the bill's effective date, courts will be prohibited from appointing guardians who are not licensed or do not employ licensed professionals, and employees of professional guardians will be prevented from making independent decisions on behalf of individuals with developmental disabilities unless they are personally licensed. The bill also maintains the existing requirement that courts make reasonable efforts to consult the individual with a developmental disability about their guardian preference and consider their input. Additionally, the bill updates language to prevent service-providing agencies from being appointed as guardians except in rare circumstances where no other suitable option exists, with the goal of ensuring more qualified and independent guardianship for individuals with developmental disabilities.

Military Affairs and Security

https://legislature.mi.gov/Bills/Bill?ObjectName=2025-HB-4729