Sen. Irwin Celebrates Signing of Bills to Protect Property Rights of Vulnerable Individuals

Jul 24, 2026 | Press Release

LANSING, Mich. (July 23, 2026) — Today, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signed Senate Bills 585–586 into law, bipartisan legislation to strengthen and protect the rights of individuals placed in guardianships during property or real estate sales. Sen. Jeff Irwin (D-Ann Arbor), sponsor of Senate Bill 585, has issued the following statement in response: 

“Vulnerable adults placed into guardianship deserve to have their rights protected. Once signed into law, my bill requires a professional appraisal before the sale of real estate owned by an adult placed in guardianship. This measure provides accountability and clarity, protecting the assets of people placed under guardianship.” 

This legislation protects the rights of individuals placed in guardianships by requiring a court to find that a change of residence is in the best interest of the person under guardianship and mandating professional appraisals be made before any real estate is sold.  

Source:
Sen. Irwin Celebrates Signing of Bills to Protect Property Rights of Vulnerable Individuals 

Governor Signs Supported Decision-Making Act

Submitted by Carol A. Clark  

 

ALTSD News:

SANTA FE — New Mexicans with disabilities and older adults are one step closer to having greater autonomy in their decision-making after the governor signed SB 535 into law last week. 

SB 535, an omnibus bill addressing various public health, safety and welfare measures, includes the Supported Decision-Making Act, which will establish a new program within the Office of Guardianship dedicated towards supported decision-making agreements, an alternative to adult guardianship. The New Mexico Aging and Long-Term Services Department (ALTSD) will collaborate closely with the Office of Guardianship to connect interested New Mexicans with supported decision-making resources. 

“Providing more pathways to autonomy and self-determination strengthens our communities,” Emily Kaltenbach, ALTSD Cabinet Secretary said. “This legislation will help ensure that those who need it have the necessary support to make informed decisions while maintaining their independence and dignity.” 

Currently, more than half of U.S. states, including Texas, Colorado and Arizona, have adopted supported decision-making as a legal alternative to guardianship. While several other legal avenues provide a named supporter, the supported decision-making framework allows individuals to retain full decision-making authority while receiving that assistance.  

“Too often people with disabilities do not have a voice when making decisions, which prevents them from learning necessary skills and gaining freewill,” said Vashad Frink, disability rights advocate and supported decision-making ambassador. “The Supported Decision-Making Act will help ensure people with disabilities like me have the same rights and respect as everyone else.” 

The ALTSD and the Office of Guardianship extend their gratitude to the bill sponsors, legislative supporters, and community partners who worked to advance this vital legislation. Their commitment ensures that more New Mexicans will have the support they need to lead independent, self-determined lives. 

For more information about the Office of Guardianship, visit nmddpc.com/guardianship_program. 

Full Article & Source:
Governor Signs Supported Decision-Making Act