The bill amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 480.35, subdivision 2, to clarify the structure of the guardian ad litem program. It specifies that the State Guardian Ad Litem Board is responsible for creating and administering a statewide, independent program that includes both volunteers and paid staff as guardians for parents and incompetent adults involved in juvenile and family court cases. This amendment aims to enhance the program's capacity to serve the best interests of children by incorporating a diverse range of participants. Additionally, the bill outlines the duties and responsibilities of the board, which include approving a budget for the program, establishing funding distribution procedures, and setting standards and policies for the program's operation. The board is also empowered to adopt necessary standards to ensure quality advocacy and to propose statutory and rule changes that align with the best interests of children and the effective functioning of the guardian ad litem program.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 480.35