Connecticut House Bill HB05194

Connecticut 2021 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/15/21
• Refer: 1/15/21

Caption

An Act Concerning The Responsibilities Of Court-appointed Conservators And The Rights Of Conserved Persons.

Impact

The bill also requires that conservators cannot make significant decisions regarding the financial and medical affairs of the conserved individuals without prior consultation with their family members. This stipulation is particularly significant as it aims to enhance family involvement in critical decision-making processes, fostering a collaborative approach in the management of the conserved person's well-being. Additionally, if a conserved person has no heirs or family members, their property will revert to the state upon their death, which emphasizes accountability in the management of assets.

Summary

House Bill 05194 aims to amend existing laws concerning the responsibilities of court-appointed conservators and the rights of the individuals under conservatorship. The bill was introduced to ensure a more thorough assessment and consideration of alternatives before appointing a conservator. It mandates that the Probate Court must explore all options and take into account the wishes of family and friends of the individual in question when deciding on the necessity of conservatorship. This approach seeks to uphold the autonomy and preferences of those who may require such oversight.

Contention

Another key aspect of the bill is the requirement for a full medical evaluation by an impartial medical provider before a conservator is appointed. This evaluation must include interviews with family members to ascertain the needs and preferences of the conserved individual fully. While the intent behind this is to ensure that the conservatorship is indeed necessary and appropriate, there are potential concerns about the implications for individuals who may need swift intervention but may face delays due to the evaluation process. Furthermore, the bill protects the visitation rights of family and friends, ensuring that conservators cannot unreasonably restrict access to the conserved person, which is a critical consideration for the emotional and psychological health of both parties.

Final_thoughts

Overall, HB05194 appears to prioritize the rights and dignity of individuals subjected to conservatorship while balancing the responsibilities of conservators in managing their affairs. As this bill progresses, discussions will likely focus on the complexities of implementing these guidelines while safeguarding the interests of conserved persons and their families.