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HB 426

Petition for Guardianship of the Property of Alleged Disabled Person - Stay of Civil Actions and Proceedings

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Tiffany Alston and 3 co-sponsors

HB 426 establishes Maryland procedures for property guardianship petitions and pauses civil lawsuits during guardianship proceedings to protect alleged disabled persons' financial interests.

Passed Enrolled
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 426

Legislative bill overview

HB 426 establishes procedures for petitioning guardianship over the property of an alleged disabled person in Maryland, and creates provisions for staying (pausing) civil actions and proceedings during the guardianship process. The bill clarifies the legal mechanisms and timelines for establishing property guardianship while protecting the rights of the alleged disabled person during transition.

Why is this important

Guardianship of property is a significant legal intervention that restricts an individual's financial autonomy and decision-making rights. Clear procedural standards protect vulnerable individuals from exploitation while ensuring due process, and staying civil proceedings prevents conflicting legal claims during guardianship establishment. This affects disabled persons, elderly individuals, and families navigating the legal system during periods of incapacity.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of "alleged disabled person" definition – The bill's criteria for who qualifies may be too broad or too narrow, raising concerns about both over-guardianship of capable individuals and under-protection of truly vulnerable people
  • Duration and conditions of civil action stays – Pausing existing lawsuits could harm plaintiffs with legitimate claims or create opportunities for delay tactics, requiring careful balance on stay duration and exceptions
  • Rights protections and due process – Stakeholders may debate whether the bill provides sufficient safeguards for the alleged disabled person's voice, legal representation, and ability to contest guardianship establishment

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

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