MO HB1297

Amends Section 475.040 to change venue transfer from discretionary ("may") to mandatory ("shall") when certain conditions are met, unless the guardian objects to the venue change

Requires guardians to directly and regularly participate in any medical or other service provided to the ward, expanding beyond just assuring the ward receives care

Grants guardians explicit authority to file motions, pleadings, and documents with the court and appear without legal counsel, and to participate in administrative hearings and civil litigation on the ward's behalf without filing motions to intervene

Authorizes guardians to accept service of process for the ward, maintain contact with confined wards regardless of facility type, and assist wards in exercising legal rights

Prohibits any party from restricting a guardian's duties or authority without first obtaining a court order following a full hearing with proper notice, with retroactive application to existing guardianships