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Bill would allow wards to appear virtually and require monthly guardian visits, sponsor says
Summary
LB 11178, introduced by Sen. Wendy DeBoer, would allow people under guardianship to attend hearings virtually and require guardians to visit wards at least monthly; proponents said those changes increase oversight while Bar representatives urged clearer definitions and flexibility.
Sen. Wendy DeBoer told the Judiciary Committee LB 11178 aims to modernize guardianship practice by ensuring incapacitated people have an opportunity to attend hearings virtually and by requiring guardians to visit wards at least once a month.
“The bill will require that guardians visit the wards under their care once a month,” DeBoer said during her introduction. Disability Rights Nebraska’s Amy Miller supported the monthly‑visit requirement as a way to ensure guardians actually see the person whose rights they control and noted court annual reports often show infrequent in‑person contact. AARP Nebraska’s Gina Ragland urged adding clear definitions for terms such as “monitor” and “periodic contact” to reduce vagueness that could invite litigation.
The Nebraska State Bar Association, speaking in a neutral capacity, supported language in the bill aligning attorney‑fee provisions with trust law but urged the committee to clarify the meaning and scope of the visitation and monitoring provisions; bar representatives also said monthly visits may not be necessary in every case and asked for drafting tweaks.
Senators questioned how reporting would be enforced and what exceptions should apply for professional guardians or temporary court‑appointed replacements. No vote was taken; the sponsor said she would work with stakeholders on clarifying amendments.
