CO HB1167

Authorizes health-care providers and facilities to select a temporary proxy decision-maker for adult patients lacking decisional capacity when no legally authorized proxy can be located.

Temporary proxy authority applies only in emergency circumstances and terminates when a permanent guardian is appointed, a lawful proxy is located, the patient regains capacity, or the patient is discharged from the facility.

Health-care providers must select temporary proxies in order of preference: spouse/civil union partner, adult children, parents, adult siblings, other adult relatives, or any willing adult meeting statutory requirements.

Requires consideration of factors including willingness to serve, ability to honor patient's wishes or best interests, frequency of contact with patient, demonstrated care and concern, and availability to participate in medical decision-making.

Prohibits selection of individuals subject to protective orders or court orders requiring them to avoid contact with the patient; takes effect 90 days after final adjournment unless subject to referendum.