Georgia House of Representatives Passes Adult Guardianship Legislation Backed by AARP

Today, the Georgia House of Representatives passed the Uniform Adult Guardianship and Protective Proceedings Jurisdiction Act (UAGPPJA) which would make it easier for family caregivers to provide care across state lines.

HB 954, sponsored by Representative Chuck Efstration (R-104), would allow Georgia courts to recognize adult guardianship orders from other states, and, similarly, other states that have passed the uniform act may recognize Georgia court orders. UAGPPJA also creates a clear process for determining which state has jurisdiction and outlines procedures for transferring a guardianship to another state and for accepting a transfer, helping to eliminate both the expense and the wait.

“This is great news for family caregivers in Georgia,” said Debra Tyler-Horton, AARP Georgia State Director. “This important legislation will help to reduce elder abuse while allowing those who care for loved ones to make important decisions quickly.”

Forty-two other states, as well as Puerto Rico and the District of Columbia, have already enacted the Uniform Adult Guardianship and Protective Proceedings Jurisdiction Act.