The proposed bill establishes the Office of Professional Corporate Guardians within the New Jersey Department of Human Services, tasked with overseeing the licensing and standards of practice for professional corporate guardians. This office will operate independently, adopting regulations, developing qualification criteria, and maintaining a searchable database of registered guardians. An executive director, appointed by the Commissioner of Human Services, will lead the office and ensure compliance with established standards. The bill outlines registration requirements for entities seeking to operate as professional corporate guardians, including the necessity for substitute guardians, proof of liability insurance, and background checks for owners. It also sets forth disqualifications based on criminal history and financial irresponsibility, while establishing procedures for disciplinary actions against guardians who fail to meet standards.
Additionally, the bill authorizes the Office of Professional Corporate Guardians to access the child abuse registry and domestic violence central registry for conducting background checks on potential guardians. It mandates the creation of a searchable database detailing registered guardians' qualifications and any disciplinary actions. The bill emphasizes the responsibilities of professional corporate guardians, including advocacy for their wards and compliance with reporting requirements. It also outlines the process for designating personal choice guardians through private arrangements and specifies conditions for terminating a guardian's authority. Overall, the legislation aims to enhance oversight and accountability in professional corporate guardianship in New Jersey.