An Act relative to supported decision-making agreements for certain adults
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Progress
Where this bill stands in the legislative process.
- Introduced
- Passed House
- Passed Senate
- To Governor
- Became Law
Overview
This bill establishes a system of ‘supported decision-making agreements’ in Massachusetts, allowing adults with disabilities to appoint trusted supporters to help with daily decisions without losing their legal rights or autonomy. These agreements would empower individuals to maintain control over their lives while receiving assistance in areas like finances, healthcare, and housing. The goal is to promote independence and reduce reliance on guardianship or conservatorship.
Key provisions
- Creates a framework for supported decision-making agreements.
- Defines the roles and responsibilities of both the individual and their supporter.
- Specifies the types of decisions that can be supported.
- Outlines the process for establishing and terminating these agreements.
- Ensures that individuals retain their legal rights and capacity.
- Requires training for supporters.
- Establishes a registry for supported decision-making agreements.
- Provides for the oversight and regulation of the program.
Who is affected
- Adults with disabilities
- Family members and friends of adults with disabilities
- Legal professionals
- Healthcare providers
- Disability advocacy organizations
Notable changes
- Authorizes a new approach to decision-making for adults with disabilities, shifting away from traditional guardianship models.
Bill text
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Sponsors
Official sponsors from legislative records.
36 on record
Primary sponsor
Cosponsors
Bradley H. Jones Jr.
Christopher Hendricks
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