This bill proposes the establishment of a new chapter, 27-27.1, in the North Dakota Century Code, creating an Office of Guardianship and Conservatorship under the Supreme Court. The office will oversee guardianship and conservatorship services, develop policies, ensure ethical standards, grant licenses, monitor services, and provide training. It includes provisions for confidentiality, penalties for unauthorized disclosures, and the creation of a Guardianship and Conservatorship Support Fund to facilitate its operations. The bill also emphasizes the protection of rights for individuals receiving public services and mandates transparency and accountability in the office's operations.

Additionally, the bill repeals the existing chapter 27-27, which relates to a task force on guardianship monitoring, and amends various sections concerning the removal of guardians and conservators. It introduces penalties for non-compliance with witness attendance in investigations, establishes a preferred claim for the office against estates for care expenses, and disqualifies individuals removed for good cause from future proceedings. The bill also modifies laws regarding medical assistance claims against estates, increases allowable funeral expenses, and appropriates funds for the judicial branch and the attorney general's office to support these changes during the 2025-2027 biennium.

Statutes affected:
INTRODUCED: 30.1-29-15, 50-24.1-07
Prepared by the Legislative Council staff for Representative Paulson: 30.1-29-15, 50-24.1-07
FIRST ENGROSSMENT: 30.1-29-15, 50-24.1-07
PREFILED: 30.1-29-15, 50-24.1-07