MN HF2990

Establishes the State Guardian Ad Litem Board as an independent entity in the judicial branch consisting of seven members: three appointed by the Supreme Court (including two attorneys and one public member) and four appointed by the governor.

Creates a statewide guardian ad litem program administered by a program administrator appointed by the board to advocate for the best interests of children, minor parents, and incompetent adults in juvenile and family court cases.

Transfers guardian ad litem funding from trial courts to the State Guardian Ad Litem Board, with a $12,367,000 transfer from trial court appropriations for fiscal year 2011 to establish and operate the program.

Requires the State Guardian Ad Litem Board to pay for guardian ad litem expenses and reasonable compensation for attorneys serving as counsel for guardians ad litem when necessary.

Effective date is July 1, 2010 for all provisions; the State Guardian Ad Litem Board shall be established by October 1, 2010, with operational structure established during fiscal year 2011.