Relating to training on Alzheimer's disease, dementia, and related disorders for certain guardians.

New training rules for Texas guardians

The Texas law takes effect September 1, 2025, and sets training and court oversight rules for guardians. Before appointment, proposed guardians must complete training on their duties, alternatives to guardianship, available supports and services, and the person's rights. The Judicial Branch Certification Commission must provide this training free online and in writing on request. It must send courts proof of completion and a criminal background check at least 10 days before the appointment hearing. An added one-hour course covers guardians responsible for the personal care, finances, or both of someone age 60 or older. It also covers guardians of younger people diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease, dementia, or a related disorder. These guardians must finish the course within six months after appointment and at least annually afterward. The course covers aging, warning signs, communication, and ways to help people with these conditions exercise their rights. It is free online, and probate courts must ensure timely completion unless they grant a waiver allowed by Supreme Court rules. The Texas Supreme Court must adopt rules by January 1, 2026. The commission must post the dementia course online by July 1, 2026. Covered guardians appointed before July 1, 2026, must finish their first dementia course by September 1, 2026.