March 16, 2009

New Jersey Senate Bill 550

This recently signed New Jersey law protects beneficiaries with developmental disabilities by requiring trustees and guardians designated in a will to post a bond and periodically provide accountings to the court. The law is intended to prevent trustees and guardians from stealing funds left to beneficiaries with intellectual and developmental disabilities. By imposing stricter oversight of guardians and trustees, the state seeks to safeguard the rights and benefits of people with developmental disabilities. The bill was introduced by New Jersey Senate Majority Leader Steve Sweeney.