This bill establishes a new office of guardianship and conservatorship in North Dakota, tasked with overseeing the regulation and administration of guardianship and conservatorship services. It introduces a registry for guardians and conservators who are removed for good cause, disqualifying them from future appointments. The bill amends existing laws regarding the removal of conservators and the recovery of medical assistance expenses, allowing the court to list removed conservators on a registry. Additionally, it repeals previous laws related to a task force on guardianship monitoring and transition requirements. The new office will operate independently, developing policies, ethical standards, and monitoring services, while also having the authority to grant licenses, establish fees, and provide training.

The bill also establishes a review board for guardianship and conservatorship, detailing its composition and appointment process, which includes representatives from various organizations. Members will serve staggered terms and will not receive compensation, but will be reimbursed for travel expenses. The bill mandates the development of complaint protocols for the review board, which will conduct closed meetings. Furthermore, it creates a Guardianship and Conservatorship Support Fund to support related services, establishes confidentiality for records, and outlines the office's authority to investigate complaints and revoke licenses. The bill includes an appropriation of $1.2 million for the biennium beginning July 1, 2025, to support the office's functions and potential staffing needs.

Statutes affected:
PREFILED: 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
Prepared by the Legislative Council staff for Senate Appropriations - Education and Environment Division Committee: 30.1-29-15, 50-24.1-07
SECOND ENGROSSMENT: 30.1-29-15, 50-24.1-07
Prepared by the Legislative Council staff for Representative Frelich: 30.1-29-15, 50-24.1-07
Prepared by the Legislative Council staff for Representative Hanson: 30.1-29-15, 50-24.1-07, 54-68-02.1
Enrollment: 30.1-29-15, 50-24.1-07, 54-68-02.1
INTRODUCED: 30.1-29-15, 50-24.1-07