LANSING, Mich. — Sen. Ruth Johnson’s legislation to reform the state’s guardianship laws and help protect vulnerable individuals and their homes from guardians who might not be acting in their best interest was passed by the Michigan Senate on Thursday.

“I have spoken with dozens of families who have watched helplessly as a loved one was removed from their home without a hearing, without notice and without a voice,” said Johnson, R-Holly. “Often their home was then sold for well below market value, and the families had no recourse. The best interests of our most vulnerable residents — not the convenience of their guardians — should drive important decisions like moving someone out of their home and selling their house.”

Johnson’s measure, Senate Bill 586, would ensure that a protected individual’s living arrangements are truly in their best interest. Under the bill, a guardian would not be allowed to change an incapacitated person’s residence without court approval after demonstrating the move is necessary and appropriate for the individual’s needs.

SB 585 would require a licensed appraiser to appraise the value of a protected person’s home prior to any sale of that property.

“We must help protect those who cannot protect themselves,” Johnson said. “There is not enough accountability or oversight in our guardianship system. I will continue to fight for meaningful reform, and this is a great first step.”

The bills now head to the House of Representatives for consideration.

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