Family & Sexuality

Legislation that strengthens protections for vulnerable elderly persons who receive court appointed guardians was passed unanimously by first committees of reference in both the House and the Senate. SB 994 (Passidomo) and HB 709 (Burton) make a number of changes to improve guardianship laws in the state with respect to conflict of interest, compensation and appointment of guardians. Additionally, the bills require that guardians may not consent to or authorize do-not-resuscitate orders for their wards without court approval. The FCCB indicated its support for the measure at both committee meetings.

Formal negotiations on the state budget for the fiscal year that starts July 1, 2019, began earlier this week. The House and Senate reached agreement on allocations - specific amounts divided among major budget areas - and the budget conference process where details are negotiated is currently underway. A final budget must be passed by both chambers before the session ends on May 3.