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HB 4729

Mental health: guardians; appointment of guardians; modify. Amends sec. 628 of 1974 PA 258 (MCL 330.1628). TIE BAR WITH: HB 4728'25

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Greg Alexander and 22 co-sponsors

Michigan bill modifies mental health guardianship appointment procedures under state law, affecting how courts assign guardians for individuals with mental health conditions.

REFERRED TO COMMITTEE ON HOUSING AND HUMAN SERVICES
#mentalhealth:guardians #probate:guardiansandconservators
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Bill Summary · HB 4729

Legislative bill overview

HB 4729 modifies Michigan's mental health guardianship law (MCL 330.1628) to adjust procedures for appointing guardians for individuals with mental health conditions. The bill is tied to HB 4728, suggesting coordinated changes to guardianship statutes. The specific amendments are not detailed in the summary provided, but guardianship modifications typically address appointment criteria, court processes, or guardian responsibilities.

Why is this important

Guardianship laws directly affect vulnerable populations' civil rights and autonomy. Changes to appointment procedures can either strengthen protections for individuals unable to make decisions or potentially expand state authority over personal matters. The mental health context makes this particularly sensitive, as guardianship decisions have lasting consequences for medical decision-making, finances, and personal liberty.

Potential points of contention

  • Due process concerns: Guardianship involves removing legal rights; any streamlined appointment processes must balance efficiency with robust protections against unnecessary restrictions on autonomy
  • Guardianship alternatives: Disability advocates often prefer less restrictive arrangements (conservatorships, supported decision-making); the bill's approach to alternatives is unclear
  • Tie-bar dependency: The coordination with HB 4728 means full impact cannot be assessed independently; both bills must pass together, potentially forcing compromise on unrelated provisions

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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