SB3228 Summary

• Adds new definition of "health care agent" as an individual at least 18 years old designated to make health care decisions including anatomical gifts, autopsy, and disposition of remains, with authority as a personal representative under state and federal law.

• Removes definitions of "incurable or irreversible condition," "permanent unconsciousness," and "terminal condition" from the Act.

• Expands witness eligibility restrictions to exclude licensed professionals providing services to the principal (advanced practice nurses, physician assistants, dentists, podiatric physicians, optometrists) and clarifies that facility operators' prohibition extends only to directors and executive officers, not other employees.

• Eliminates specific format requirements for the statutory health care power of attorney and replaces the old detailed notice and form with new comprehensive notice and form addressing agent selection, decision-making authority, and life-sustaining treatment options.

• Takes effect January 1, 2015 and includes a saving clause protecting all previously executed health care agencies and agent actions.