Bill No.: HB0349                  Drafter:  LGC

 

LSO No.:  05LSO-0699              Effective Date:  7/1/2005

 

Enrolled Act No.:  HEA0108

 

Chapter No.:       193

 

Prime Sponsor:     Representative Simpson

 

Catch Title:       Temporary guardianship for children.

 

Subject:  Provides procedures for obtaining a temporary guardianship over children for educational, medical and dental care.

 

Summary/Major Elements:

 

·        Creates a new procedure whereby a caregiver relative of a child may be appointed temporary guardian by a court for purposes of education or obtaining medical or dental care.

 

·        The new procedure differs from a standard temporary guardianship proceeding by allowing for appointment without actual notice to the child's natural parents if the court finds that the guardianship is in the best interests of the child, and that no other person appears to have authority and is willing to act on behalf of the child.

 

·        The new procedure provides for notice to the child's natural parents and opportunity for hearing after the appointment has occurred.

 

·        Except upon showing of good cause, temporary guardianships under this legislation are valid for not more than one year.