The bill, S.B. No. 2342, aims to enhance the process of appointing guardians by requiring more comprehensive information in the application for guardianship. Key amendments include the addition of new requirements for applicants to disclose whether alternatives to guardianship were considered and the feasibility of those alternatives. The application must now also include detailed information about any person or institution caring for the proposed ward, including their contact details and date of birth, if applicable. Additionally, the bill mandates that the court clerk obtain criminal history record information for individuals proposed to serve as guardians, including temporary and successor guardians, as well as those who will have care and custody of the ward.

Furthermore, the bill introduces a new section that requires guardians who are certified or attorneys to notify the court of any changes regarding the care and custody of the ward within 30 days. If a change occurs, the guardian must provide the court with the new caregiver's information, prompting the clerk to obtain their criminal history record information. The bill emphasizes the confidentiality of this criminal history information, allowing its use solely for court determinations related to guardianship appointments. The provisions of this act are set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Estates Code 1101.001, Estates Code 1104.402, Estates Code 1104.405, Government Code 155.205, Government Code 411.1386 (Estates Code 1104, Estates Code 1101, Government Code 155, Government Code 411)