Bill > HB491

This bill makes comprehensive changes to Ohio's guardianship law, primarily focusing on modernizing and clarifying provisions related to guardianship for minors and incompetent adults. Key provisions include lowering the age at which a minor can select a guardian from fourteen to twelve years, expanding the definition of "guardian" and "incompetent," and providing more detailed guidelines for appointing and overseeing guardians. The bill introduces new requirements for guardian reporting, including biennial reports for guardians of incompetent adults, and establishes more specific procedures for court oversight of guardianships. It also modifies provisions related to guardianship appointments, including allowing more flexibility for non-resident guardians and creating clearer standards for evaluating the continued necessity of guardianships. The legislation aims to provide stronger protections for wards while giving courts more tools to ensure guardians are acting in the best interests of those under their care. Additionally, the bill repeals several existing sections of the Revised Code related to guardianship and makes technical corrections to existing language throughout the guardianship statutes.

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https://www.legislature.ohio.gov/legislation/136/hb491