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Reform is never easy – especially when you are dealing with an institution or system cloaked in secrecy and one in which historically there have been few effective options for challenging decisions that adversely affect people’s lives.
So that makes the positive changes in New Mexico’s court-run system of guardianships and conservatorships for people no longer capable of managing their own affairs all the more gratifying – and meaningful.
In what essentially is the third wave of reforms since the Journal launched its “Who Guards the Guardians?” series of investigative articles beginning in November 2016, Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham last month signed into law a reform measure that promises thousands of incapacitated adults under court-ordered guardianships more oversight of their cases by a new team of court auditors. It also sets up a pilot program in which volunteer court visitor
Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham
An attempt by Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham’s administration to push its own adult guardianship reform measure appeared dead last legislative session after running afoul of state judges who were concerned about its constitutionality.
What resulted – looking very little like the original bill – is a comprehensive new law that promises thousands of incapacitated adults under court-ordered guardianship more oversight of their cases by a new team of court auditors. It also sets up a pilot program in which volunteer court visitors will meet with those under guardianship to ensure their welfare.
Lujan Grisham personally worked with judges, the state Office of Guardianship, and legislators on the reforms, her office said, and signed the measure into law April 8.