Report by Paula Antolini
March 29, 2017 11:02AM EDT
Senator McLachlan Supports Bill to Protect Individuals in Conservatorships
State Senator Michael McLachlan (R-24) voiced his support for a bill to provide more accountability over conservatorships. The bill was the subject of a public hearing before the legislature’s Judiciary Committee on Monday.
“It is only common sense that Connecticut Probate Courts have written standards of practice for conservators to provide definitive direction in how they should operate,” Sen. McLachlan said. “This will provide clear guidance for conservators and help eliminate any confusion.”
SB 976, An Act Concerning Conservator Accountability, also enables the probate courts to randomly audit conservator accounts in order to verify conservatorship finances. The cost of the audits would be paid by the probate courts.
“The vast majority of conservators, whether they are family members or professionals, are honest, well-meaning people,” Sen. McLachlan said. “Unfortunately, our state has experienced some egregious cases of conservators taking advantage of individuals and estates. The new audits will serve as a preventative measure against future misconduct.”
The bill allows the probate courts to select accounts for audit on a random basis.
Sen. McLachlan said that in addition to estates, conservatorships are assigned to some of the state’s most vulnerable residents.
“We must do everything we can to protect the interests of these individuals,” he said.
Residents who want to submit testimony on behalf of SB 976 can send an email to [email protected] with the bill number in the subject line.
Sen. McLachlan represents the communities of Bethel, Danbury, New Fairfield, and Sherman.
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