An act relating to guardianship proceedings

This bill (S.5) consolidates Vermont's adult guardianship proceedings into a single Probate Division of the Superior Court, replacing the current split system where some cases go to the Probate Division and others to the Family Division. It directly affects approximately 600 adults with disabilities currently under guardianship in the less protective Family Division, ensuring they receive the same procedural safeguards as those in the Probate Division. Key provisions include requiring annual court reports, court approval for residential changes, guardian ad litem appointments, and de novo appeals - currently only available in the Probate Division. The bill aims to create consistent, fairer protections for all adults under guardianship by eliminating jurisdictional disparities.