Oklahoma 2024 Regular Session

Oklahoma House Bill HB3667

Introduced
2/5/24  
Refer
2/6/24  
Report Pass
2/15/24  
Engrossed
3/5/24  

Caption

Guardian and ward; guardians; applicants; training; verification; attestation; document; requirements; Department of Human Services; list; guardianship determination; effective date.

Impact

The bill's passage would introduce significant changes to the guardianship process in Oklahoma. By enforcing training requirements, the bill is intended to improve the quality of care provided to incapacitated persons. Additionally, the law would grant courts more authority in evaluating the suitability of guardians and making decisions that are in the best interest of the individual under guardianship. This aligns with a growing emphasis on enhancing the rights and well-being of individuals with disabilities and special needs.

Summary

House Bill 3667 aims to amend existing statutes related to guardianship in Oklahoma, specifically focusing on the training and qualifications required for guardians appointed to care for incapacitated individuals. The bill mandates that any applicant serving as a guardian for individuals with conditions such as Alzheimer's disease or dementia must complete specified training unless waived by the court. This training is designed to enhance the guardian's understanding of the particular needs and challenges faced by these individuals, thereby ensuring more effective care and support.

Sentiment

The sentiment around HB 3667 appears largely supportive among advocates for disabled and elderly individuals, who see the training requirement as a positive step towards improving guardianship quality. Supporters argue that better-equipped guardians can lead to better outcomes for wards. However, there may be some concerns regarding the feasibility of implementing such training requirements, especially regarding access and affordability for potential guardians.

Contention

Notably, discussions during the legislative process indicate some contention regarding the specifics of training requirements and the potential implications for those looking to become guardians. Opponents may raise points about the additional burdens placed on individuals seeking guardianship, as well as concerns about the enforcement and effectiveness of the training programs. The bill highlights an ongoing dialogue about how best to balance the protection of vulnerable populations with the accessibility of guardianship services.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

OK HB2616

Guardianship and ward; guardians of minors; copy; effective date.

OK HB2746

Guardianships; creating the Courtney Smith Act; transportation of ward; conditions; restriction; effective date.

OK HB1630

Children; Department of Human Services; guardianship; information; signature; effective date.

OK SB1042

Guardianship; authorizing application for court order for transportation of a ward to an inpatient treatment facility; establishing criteria for certain determination. Effective date.

OK HB2005

Guardian and ward; multiple guardians; effective date.

OK HB2720

Guardian and ward; powers of guardian; effective date.

OK SB771

Determination of competence; providing for standing for Office of Public Guardian to participate in certain proceedings. Effective date.

OK HB1169

Guardian and ward; Guardian and Ward Reform Act of 2023; effective date.

OK HB1168

Guardian and ward; Guardian and Ward Reform Act of 2023; effective date.

OK SB562

Documentary tax stamp; providing disclosure requirements. Effective date.

Similar Bills

NJ S4092

Revises procedures for temporary guardianship.

NJ S2622

Revises procedures for temporary guardianship.

NJ A4303

Revises and updates law pertaining to guardianship to encourage ethical conduct by guardians and to provide stronger protections for wards and proposed wards.

OK SB198

Guardianship; modifying procedures for determination of guardianship for incapacitated person. Effective date.

AZ HB2492

Guardianship; court appointments; care placement

OK SB1751

Guardianship; requiring completion of certain training prior to appointment as guardian for certain persons; requiring verification of training to be submitted to court; authorizing waiver of certain requirements by the court. Effective date.

NJ A3996

Revises and updates law pertaining to guardianship to encourage ethical conduct by guardians and to provide stronger protections for wards and proposed wards.

NJ S387

Expands role of temporary guardian to include arranging placement of alleged incapacitated person in appropriate, less restrictive environment.