The proposed legislation, General Assembly Raised Bill No. 474, mandates that individuals appointed as conservators of the estate or conservators of the person in Probate Court proceedings must complete an annual training program starting October 1, 2026. This training, which will be established and supervised by the Probate Court Administrator, will cover essential topics such as statutory provisions, ethical considerations, the operation of the Probate Court system, and available resources for conservators. Failure to complete the training without good cause may result in removal from the conservatorship role.
Additionally, the bill allows individuals appointed as conservators before October 1, 2026, to participate in the training program, with a potential fee of up to thirty-five dollars for their participation. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026, and aims to enhance the competency and accountability of conservators in managing the affairs of those they serve.