The bill aims to establish supported decision-making as a less restrictive alternative to guardianship for adults with developmental disabilities by enacting several new sections of the Revised Code. It defines key terms such as "principal," "supported decision-making," "supported decision-making plan," and "supporter," emphasizing that adults with developmental disabilities are presumed competent unless a court determines otherwise. The bill outlines the process for creating a supported decision-making plan, which must be voluntary and documented, and specifies the roles and responsibilities of supporters in assisting the principal with decision-making while ensuring the principal's autonomy.
Additionally, the bill clarifies that entering into a supported decision-making plan does not imply incapacity and that individuals are not required to have such a plan. It also provides protections for supporters, including fiduciary duties and the requirement to disclose any conflicts of interest. The legislation ensures that third parties acting in good faith based on a supported decision-making plan are protected from liability, provided they are not aware of any modifications or terminations of the plan. Overall, the bill seeks to empower adults with developmental disabilities to make their own decisions with appropriate support while safeguarding their rights and autonomy.