This bill amends the Michigan Mental Health Code, specifically section 602, to enhance the guardianship provisions for individuals with developmental disabilities. It emphasizes that guardianship must be utilized only as necessary to promote and protect the individual's well-being, taking into account their abilities and encouraging maximum self-reliance and independence. The bill introduces a requirement for courts to apply the least restrictive alternative principle when determining the extent of guardianship, ensuring that personal liberty and financial management are not restricted more than necessary for protection.

Additionally, the bill outlines considerations for the court before appointing a guardian, suggesting less restrictive alternatives such as the use of an attorney-in-fact, trust management, representative payees, supported decision-making, and assistive technology. It also establishes that if guardianship is deemed necessary, partial guardianship should be the preferred option. The legal language has been updated to reflect these changes, including the insertion of new definitions and requirements while deleting outdated terms and phrases.

Statutes affected:
Senate Introduced Bill: 330.1602