An act relating to guardianship proceedings

This bill, known as the Adult Guardianship Equity Act, moves guardianship cases for adults with developmental disabilities from the Family Division to the Probate Division of Vermont's Superior Court. It establishes new rules requiring that guardianship be used only when necessary to protect an individual's rights, prioritizing voluntary guardianship options and ensuring the least restrictive approach is taken. The law also repeals the previous chapter governing guardianship services for people with developmental disabilities and creates specific procedures for when the Office of Public Guardian must be appointed if no private guardian is available. Additionally, it clarifies that individuals receiving guardianship services can appeal decisions or petition to modify or terminate their guardianship through the court system.