The proposed bill aims to revise adult guardianship laws in Montana by introducing several key changes. It establishes an additional filing fee of $15 for each person nominated as a guardian when filing a petition for the appointment of a guardian of an adult, bringing the total fee to $70. The bill mandates background checks for individuals nominated to serve as guardians, requiring the court to review these results to determine their suitability. Furthermore, full guardians are now required to submit an initial care plan to the court within 60 days of their appointment, detailing the ward's living arrangements, health care needs, and plans for social interactions.

Additionally, the bill revises the powers of guardians concerning a ward's communication and interaction with others. It allows guardians to impose reasonable restrictions on communication and visitation but prohibits them from completely denying contact with individuals the ward wishes to interact with unless the court approves such a denial based on good cause. The bill also emphasizes the importance of maintaining supportive relationships for the ward, ensuring that guardians facilitate connections with family members and significant others. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2023.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 25-1-201, 72-5-315, 72-5-321