The Michigan House of Representatives has passed legislation to establish a surrogate consent statute, which will help families make healthcare decisions for their loved ones more easily.
The bills, part of a package from a subcommittee of the Elder Abuse Task Force, aim to reduce the need for courts and court-appointed attorneys when making medical decisions for vulnerable adults.
Supporters say the new law will create a clear process for surrogate medical consent, protecting vulnerable adults and improving patient care. It is now headed to the Michigan Senate for review.
The Elder Abuse Task Force, formed in 2019, includes more than 55 organizations from the public, private, and nonprofit sectors. Its goal is to fight elder abuse through initiatives that include training for guardians, developing a Vulnerable Adult Incident Report, and strengthening laws against financial exploitation.
Previous efforts by the task force have led to the Financial Exploitation Prevention Act in 2021 and a complete rewrite of the Power of Attorney statute.
Residents are encouraged to call 800-24-ABUSE to report suspected elder abuse or seek resources.
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