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Senate Passes Protections for Wards in Guardianship

AUSTIN — The Senate today passed SB 220, legislation authored by Senator Jane Nelson to increase protections of wards in guardianship and make it easier for families to navigate the guardianship system. The bill now goes to the House.

"Reforms in this bill will protect the civil liberties of persons who come under the state guardianship system. They also will help family members understand and follow the process," Senator Nelson said.

Senate Bill 220:

• clarifies that wards and proposed wards may hire an attorney as long as they have capacity to contract;
• requires courts to inform family members of their right to be notified of all actions relating to a guardianship;
• clarifies that when a guardian is removed, family members can apply to serve as the ward's guardian;
• encourages the use of volunteers to assist with the state's Guardianship Services Program; and
• directs the agencies involved with this program to streamline their guardianship procedures.

Senator Nelson represents Senate District 12, which includes portions of Denton and Tarrant counties. She is Chairman of the Senate Health & Human Services Committee.