S.B. No. 213 Summary

• Establishes supported decision-making as a nonrestrictive alternative to guardianship for adults with developmental disabilities in Ohio.

• Creates a legal presumption that all adults with developmental disabilities are capable of making decisions about their lives unless a court determines otherwise, and prohibits use of developmental disability status alone as evidence of incapacity.

• Allows supported decision-making plans to be either informal (natural supports) or formal (written and witnessed), with the principal choosing one or more supporters to assist with understanding information, accessing records, and communicating decisions.

• Requires the Department of Developmental Disabilities to develop a model written plan and informational materials for adults, families, and professionals.

• Provides liability protections for supporters and third parties who act in good faith based on a supported decision-making plan, while requiring supporters to disclose conflicts of interest and maintain confidentiality of protected health and financial information.