Bill H.428, introduced by Representatives Cina and Logan, aims to establish mandatory training requirements for individuals appointed as guardians for adults with disabilities by probate courts. The bill amends existing law to ensure that guardians understand their powers and duties, and it introduces a training program developed in collaboration with the Probate Division of the Superior Court and the Department of Disabilities, Aging, and Independent Living. This training will cover essential topics, including a review of a guardianship handbook, the constitutional and statutory rights of the person under guardianship, and definitions of civil rights as they pertain to adults with disabilities. Guardians are required to complete this training before the guardianship begins and every three years thereafter.

In addition to the training requirements, the bill modifies the language regarding the responsibilities of guardians. Specifically, it changes the term "assure" to "ensure" in the context of guardians guaranteeing that the person under guardianship receives necessary benefits and services. The bill also updates the language to use gender-neutral terms, replacing "he or she" with "the person" and "his or her" with "the person's." The act is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 14-3071