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This groundbreaking civil rights bill for people with disabilities reforms the probate conservatorship system, which has been in the news since Britney Spears' case brought to light the many systemic abuses that are all too common. AB 1663 also writes supported decision-making (SDM) into state law. That means Californians who need support when making choices can get it - without the court taking their rights away.
Here's a short summary of what AB 1663 changes:
- Places supported decision-making into state law for the first time, which confirms people with disabilities’ rights to choose trusted people to support them with their choices
- Requires the court to consider less restrictive alternatives to conservatorship
- Makes it easier to exit a conservatorship
- Ensures that decisions made by people with disabilities, even if they are conserved, are respected
These aren't the only things AB 1663 does, but they are among the most important. Click here to read the text of the bill, which explains everything AB 1663 does.
Disability Voices United President Judy Mark released the following statement today following the bill signing:
"Today marks a historic moment in our fight to strengthen disability rights and ensure people with disabilities are not easily stripped of their civil rights through conservatorship. AB 1663 is landmark legislation that gives people with disabilities a right to support without involving the courts and prevents the abuse and overuse of conservatorships. This law affirms that conservatorships should be rare and the last resort. The default should be that people with disabilities retain their rights and get support when they need it. We deeply thank Governor Newsom for signing the bill and Assemblymember Maienschein for his leadership and unwavering commitment to people with disabilities."
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