The proposed bill would amend current statutes regarding the appointment of guardians for minors by updating the conditions under which a court may appoint a guardian. Under the new provisions, the court can appoint a guardian if it finds that the appointment is in the minor's best interest and one of the following conditions is met: (1) each living parent consents after being fully informed, (2) the parental rights of the living parents have been terminated, or (3) the minor is at least 16 years old, not involved in an open dependency case, and no parent is willing or able to act as a guardian. Additionally, the bill allows for the extension of a temporary guardian's authority if deemed in the best interest of the minor.

The bill also modifies the notice requirements for guardianship hearings. It exempts petitioners from notifying living parents if they cannot be located after a diligent search, provided the minor is at least 16 years old and not subject to an open dependency case. Furthermore, the notice must include a statement of the right to object to the guardianship and a description of the powers and duties of a guardian. If notice is not served to any living parent, the court must determine if due diligence was exercised to locate them. Overall, these changes aim to streamline the guardianship process while ensuring the best interests of minors are prioritized.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 14-5204, 14-5207, 14-5202, 14-5203
House Engrossed Version: 14-5204, 14-5207, 14-5202, 14-5203
Chaptered Version: 14-5204, 14-5207, 14-5202, 14-5203