S.B. No. 626

AN ACT

relating to guardianships, management trusts, and certain other procedures and proceedings for persons who are incapacitated, probate matters and proceedings, and other matters involving statutory county courts, including statutory probate courts.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF TEXAS:

SECTION 1. Section 30.014(a), Civil Practice and Remedies Code, is amended to read as follows:

(a) In a civil action, including a probate or guardianship proceeding, filed in a district court, county court, [or] statutory county court, or statutory probate court, each party or the party's attorney shall include in its initial pleading:

(1) the last three numbers of the party's driver's license number, if the party has been issued a driver's license; and

(2) the last three numbers of the party's social security number, if the party has been issued a social security number.

SECTION 2. Section 33.101, Estates Code, is amended to read as follows:

Sec. 33.101. TRANSFER TO OTHER COUNTY IN WHICH VENUE IS PROPER. If probate proceedings involving the same estate are commenced in more than one county and the court making a determination of venue as provided by Section 33.053 determines that venue is proper in another county, the court clerk shall make and retain a copy of the entire file in the case and transmit the original file in electronic or paper form to the court in the county in which venue is proper. The court to which the file is transmitted shall conduct the proceeding in the same manner as if the proceeding had originally been commenced in that county.

SECTION 3. Section 33.102(a), Estates Code, is amended to read as follows:

(a) If it appears to the court at any time before the final order in a probate proceeding is rendered that the court does not have priority of venue over the proceeding, the court shall, on the application of an interested person, transfer the proceeding to the proper county by transmitting to the proper court in that county in electronic or paper form:

(1) the original file in the case; and

(2) certified copies of all entries that have been made in the judge's probate docket in the proceeding.

SECTION 4. Section 33.103, Estates Code, is amended by adding Subsection (c) to read as follows:

(c) The transmittal under Subsection (b) of the original file and the certified copy of the index may be in electronic or paper form, except that an original will filed in the probate proceeding, if any, must be delivered to the court to which the proceeding is transferred.

SECTION 5. Section 51.003(b), Estates Code, is amended to read as follows:

(b) A citation or notice issued by the county clerk must be styled "The State of Texas" and be signed by the clerk under the court's [clerk's] seal.

SECTION 6. Section 202.054, Estates Code, is amended to read as follows:

Sec. 202.054. PERSONAL SERVICE OF CITATION MAY BE REQUIRED. (a) The court may require that service of citation in a proceeding to declare heirship be made by personal service on some or all of those named as distributees in the application filed under Section 202.005.

(b) If a distributee to be cited under Subsection (a) is absent from or is not a resident of this state, any disinterested person competent to make an oath that the citation was served may serve the citation.

SECTION 7. Section 351.351, Estates Code, is amended to read as follows:

Sec. 351.351. APPLICABILITY. This subchapter does not apply to:

(1) the appointment of an independent executor or administrator under Section 401.002 or 401.003(a); or

(2) the appointment of a successor independent administrator [executor] under Section 404.005.

SECTION 8. Section 404.0036(b), Estates Code, is amended to read as follows:

(b) If an independent executor is removed by the court under Section 404.003 or 404.0035, the court may, on application, appoint a successor independent administrator [executor] as provided by Section 404.005.

SECTION 9. The heading to Section 404.005, Estates Code, is amended to read as follows:

Sec. 404.005. COURT-APPOINTED SUCCESSOR INDEPENDENT ADMINISTRATOR [EXECUTOR].

SECTION 10. Sections 404.005(a), (b), (c), (h), and (i), Estates Code, are amended to read as follows:

(a) If the will of a person who dies testate names an independent executor who, having qualified, fails for any reason to continue to serve, or is removed for cause by the court, and the will does not name a successor independent executor or if each successor executor named in the will fails for any reason to qualify as executor or indicates by affidavit filed with the application for an order continuing independent administration the successor executor's inability or unwillingness to serve as successor independent executor, all of the distributees of the decedent as of the filing of the application for an order continuing independent administration may apply to the probate court for the appointment of a qualified person, firm, or corporation to serve as successor independent administrator [executor]. If the probate court finds that continued administration of the estate is necessary, the court shall enter an order continuing independent administration and appointing the person, firm, or corporation designated in the application as successor independent administrator [executor], unless the probate court finds that it would not be in the best interest of the estate to do so. The successor independent administrator [executor] shall serve with all of the powers and privileges granted to the successor's predecessor independent executor.

(b) Except as otherwise provided by this subsection, if a distributee described in this section is an incapacitated person, the guardian of the person of the distributee may sign the application on behalf of the distributee. If the probate court finds that either the continuing of independent administration or the appointment of the person, firm, or corporation designated in the application as successor independent administrator [executor] would not be in the best interest of the incapacitated person, then, notwithstanding Subsection (a), the court may not enter an order continuing independent administration of the estate. If the distributee is an incapacitated person and has no guardian of the person, the court may appoint a guardian ad litem to make application on behalf of the incapacitated person if the probate court considers such an appointment necessary to protect the interest of that distributee. If a distributee described in this section is a minor and has no guardian of the person, a natural guardian of the minor may sign the application for the order continuing independent administration on the minor's behalf unless a conflict of interest exists between the minor and the natural guardian.

(c) Except as otherwise provided by this subsection, if a trust is created in the decedent's will or if the decedent's will devises property to a trustee as described by Section 254.001, the person or class of persons entitled to receive property outright from the trust on the decedent's death and those first eligible to receive the income from the trust, determined as if the trust were to be in existence on the date of the filing of the application for an order continuing independent administration, shall, for the purposes of this section, be considered to be the distributee or distributees on behalf of the trust, and any other trust or trusts coming into existence on the termination of the trust, and are authorized to apply for an order continuing independent administration on behalf of the trust without the consent or agreement of the trustee or any other beneficiary of the trust, or the trustee or any beneficiary of any other trust which may come into existence on the termination of the trust. If a person considered to be a distributee under this subsection is an incapacitated person, the trustee or cotrustee may apply for the order continuing independent administration or sign the application on the incapacitated person's behalf if the trustee or cotrustee is not the person proposed to serve as the independent administrator [executor].

(h) If a successor independent administrator [executor] is appointed under this section, then, unless the probate court shall waive bond on application for waiver, the successor independent administrator [executor] shall be required to enter into bond payable to and to be approved by the judge and the judge's successors in a sum that is found by the judge to be adequate under all circumstances, or a bond with one surety in an amount that is found by the judge to be adequate under all circumstances, if the surety is an authorized corporate surety.

(i) Absent proof of fraud or collusion on the part of a judge, the judge may not be held civilly liable for the commission of misdeeds or the omission of any required act of any person, firm, or corporation designated as a successor independent administrator [executor] under this section. Section 351.354 does not apply to an appointment of a successor independent administrator [executor] under this section.

SECTION 11. Section 452.006, Estates Code, is amended by adding Subsection (c) to read as follows:

(c) The appointee shall file with the court proof of service of the notice required under Subsection (a) in the manner provided by Section 51.103(b)(3).

SECTION 12. Section 503.002, Estates Code, is amended to read as follows:

Sec. 503.002. RECORDING OF CERTAIN FOREIGN TESTAMENTARY INSTRUMENTS IN LANGUAGE OTHER THAN ENGLISH [ORIGINAL SIGNATURES NOT REQUIRED]. (a) An authenticated copy of a will or other testamentary instrument described by Section 503.001(a), along with a copy of the judgment, order, or decree by which the instrument was admitted to probate that has the attestation and certificate required by Section 501.002(c), that is written in whole or in part in a language other than English may be filed for recording in the deed records in any county in this state in which the land conveyed or disposed of in the instrument is located if:

(1) a correct English translation is recorded with the authenticated copies of the will or other testamentary instrument and judgment, order, or decree by which the instrument was admitted to probate; and

(2) the accuracy of the translation is sworn to before an officer authorized to administer oaths [Notwithstanding Section 501.002(c), the original signatures required by that section may not be required for a recordation in the deed records in accordance with Section 503.001 or for a purpose described by Section 503.051 or 503.052].

(b) The recording of an authenticated copy of a will or other testamentary instrument and a copy of the judgment, order, or decree in the manner provided by Subsection (a) operates as constructive notice from the date of filing to all persons of the:

(1) existence of the instrument; and

(2) title or titles conferred by the instrument.

SECTION 13. Section 1021.001, Estates Code, is amended to read as follows:

Sec. 1021.001. MATTERS RELATED TO GUARDIANSHIP PROCEEDING. (a) For purposes of this code, in a county in which there is no statutory probate court or county court at law exercising original probate jurisdiction, a matter related to a guardianship proceeding includes:

(1) the granting of letters of guardianship;

(2) the settling of an account of a guardian and all other matters relating to the settlement, partition, or distribution of a ward's estate;

(3) a claim brought by or against a guardianship estate;

(4) an action for trial of title to real property that is guardianship estate property, including the enforcement of a lien against the property;

(5) an action for trial of the right of property that is guardianship estate property;

(6) after a guardianship of the estate of a ward is required to be settled as provided by Section 1204.001:

(A) an action brought by or on behalf of the former ward against a former guardian of the ward for alleged misconduct arising from the performance of the person's duties as guardian;

(B) an action calling on the surety of a guardian or former guardian to perform in place of the guardian or former guardian, which may include the award of a judgment against the guardian or former guardian in favor of the surety;

(C) an action against a former guardian of the former ward that is brought by a surety that is called on to perform in place of the former guardian;

(D) a claim for the payment of compensation, expenses, and court costs, and any other matter authorized under Chapter 1155; and

(E) a matter related to an authorization made or duty performed by a guardian under Chapter 1204; and

(7) the appointment of a trustee for a trust created under Section 1301.053 or 1301.054, the settling of an account of the trustee, and all other matters relating to the trust.

(a-1) For purposes of this code, in a county in which there is no statutory probate court, but in which there is a county court at law exercising original probate jurisdiction, a matter related to a guardianship proceeding includes:

(1) all matters and actions described in Subsection (a);

(2) the interpretation and administration of a testamentary trust in which a ward is an income or remainder beneficiary; and

(3) the interpretation and administration of an inter vivos trust in which a ward is an income or remainder beneficiary.

(b) For purposes of this code, in a county in which there is a statutory probate court, a matter related to a guardianship proceeding includes:

(1) all matters and actions described in Subsections [Subsection] (a) and (a-1);

(2) a suit, action, or application filed against or on behalf of a guardianship or a trustee of a trust created under Section 1301.053 or 1301.054; and

(3) a cause of action in which a guardian in a guardianship pending in the statutory probate court is a party.

SECTION 14. Section 1023.006, Estates Code, is amended to read as follows:

Sec. 1023.006. TRANSFER OF RECORD. When an order of transfer is made under Section 1023.005, the clerk shall record any unrecorded papers of the guardianship required to be recorded. On payment of the clerk's fee, the clerk shall transmit in electronic or paper form to the county clerk of the county to which the guardianship was ordered transferred:

(1) the case file of the guardianship proceedings; and

(2) a certified copy of the index of the guardianship records.

SECTION 15. Section 1023.007, Estates Code, is amended to read as follows:

Sec. 1023.007. TRANSFER EFFECTIVE. The order transferring a guardianship does not take effect until:

(1) the case file and a certified copy of the index required by Section 1023.006 are filed in electronic or paper form in the office of the county clerk of the county to which the guardianship was ordered transferred; and

(2) a certificate under the clerk's official seal and reporting the filing of the case file and a certified copy of the index is filed in electronic or paper form in the court ordering the transfer by the county clerk of the county to which the guardianship was ordered transferred.

SECTION 16. Section 1051.003(b), Estates Code, is amended to read as follows:

(b) A citation or notice issued by the county clerk must be styled "The State of Texas" and be signed by the clerk under the court's [clerk's] seal.

SECTION 17. Section 1052.052(b), Estates Code, is amended to read as follows:

(b) Each case file must contain each order, judgment, and proceeding of the court and any other guardianship filing with the court, including each:

(1) application for the granting of guardianship;

(2) citation and notice, whether published or posted, including the return on the citation or notice;

(3) bond and official oath or declaration;

(4) inventory, appraisement, and list of claims;

(5) exhibit and account;

(6) report of renting;

(7) application for sale or partition of real estate;

(8) report of sale;

(9) application for authority to execute a lease for mineral development, or for pooling or unitization of lands, royalty, or other interest in minerals, or to lend or invest money;

(10) report of lending or investing money; and

(11) report of guardians of the persons.

SECTION 18. The heading to Chapter 1054, Estates Code, is amended to read as follows:

CHAPTER 1054. COURT OFFICERS, [AND] COURT-APPOINTED PERSONS, AND

ATTORNEYS

SECTION 19. The heading to Subchapter E, Chapter 1054, Estates Code, is amended to read as follows:

SUBCHAPTER E. QUALIFICATIONS TO SERVE AS [COURT-APPOINTED]

ATTORNEY

SECTION 20. Section 1054.201, Estates Code, is amended by amending Subsection (a) and adding Subsection (c) to read as follows:

(a) Except as provided by Subsection (c), an [An] attorney representing any person's interests [for an applicant for guardianship and a court-appointed attorney] in a guardianship proceeding, including an attorney ad litem, must be certified by the State Bar of Texas, or a person or other entity designated by the state bar, as having successfully completed a course of study in guardianship law and procedure sponsored by the state bar or the state bar's designee.

(c) An attorney may commence representation of a person's interests and file an appearance in a guardianship proceeding before completing the course required for certification under Subsection (a), but must complete the course not later than the 14th day after the date of filing the appearance and before filing any substantive motion in the guardianship proceeding.

SECTION 21. Section 1101.001(b), Estates Code, is amended to read as follows:

(b) The application must be sworn to by the applicant and state:

(1) the proposed ward's name, sex, date of birth, and address;

(2) the name, former name, if any, relationship, and address of the person the applicant seeks to have appointed as guardian;

(3) whether guardianship of the person or estate, or both, is sought;

(3-a) whether alternatives to guardianship and available supports and services to avoid guardianship were considered;

(3-b) whether any alternatives to guardianship and supports and services available to the proposed ward considered are feasible and would avoid the need for a guardianship;

(4) the nature and degree of the alleged incapacity, the specific areas of protection and assistance requested, and the limitation or termination of rights requested to be included in the court's order of appointment, including a termination of:

(A) the right of a proposed ward who is 18 years of age or older to vote in a public election;

(B) the proposed ward's eligibility to hold or obtain a license to operate a motor vehicle under Chapter 521, Transportation Code; and

(C) the right of a proposed ward to make personal decisions regarding residence;

(5) the facts requiring the appointment of a guardian;

(6) the interest of the applicant in the appointment of a guardian;

(7) the nature and description of any kind of guardianship existing for the proposed ward in any other state;

(8) the name and address of any person or institution having the care and custody of the proposed ward;

(9) the approximate value and a detailed description of the proposed ward's property, including:

(A) liquid assets, including any compensation, pension, insurance, or allowance to which the proposed ward may be entitled; and

(B) non-liquid assets, including real property;

(10) the name and address of any person whom the applicant knows to hold a power of attorney signed by the proposed ward and a description of the type of power of attorney;

(11) for a proposed ward who is a minor, the following information if known by the applicant:

(A) the name of each of the proposed ward's parents and either the parent's address or that the parent is deceased;

(B) the name and age of each of the proposed ward's siblings, if any, and either the sibling's address or that the sibling is deceased; and

(C) if each of the proposed ward's parents and adult siblings are deceased, the names and addresses of the proposed ward's other living relatives who are related to the proposed ward within the third degree by consanguinity and who are adults;

(12) for a proposed ward who is a minor, whether the minor was the subject of a legal or conservatorship proceeding in the preceding two years and, if so:

(A) the court involved;

(B) the nature of the proceeding; and

(C) any final disposition of the proceeding;

(13) for a proposed ward who is an adult, the following information if known by the applicant:

(A) the name of the proposed ward's spouse, if any, and either the spouse's address or that the spouse is deceased;

(B) the name of each of the proposed ward's parents and either the parent's address or that the parent is deceased;

(C) the name and age of each of the proposed ward's siblings, if any, and either the sibling's address or that the sibling is deceased;

(D) the name and age of each of the proposed ward's children, if any, and either the child's address or that the child is deceased; and

(E) if there is no living spouse, parent, adult sibling, or adult child of the proposed ward, the names and addresses of the proposed ward's other living relatives who are related to the proposed ward within the third degree by consanguinity and who are adults;

(14) facts showing that the court has venue of the proceeding; and

(15) if applicable, that the person whom the applicant seeks to have appointed as a guardian is a private professional guardian who is certified under Subchapter C, Chapter 155, Government Code, and has complied with the requirements of Subchapter G, Chapter 1104.

SECTION 22. Section 1101.153(a), Estates Code, is amended to read as follows:

(a) A court order appointing a guardian must:

(1) specify:

(A) [(1)] the name of the person appointed;

(B) [(2)] the name of the ward;

(C) [(3)] whether the guardian is of the person or estate of the ward, or both;

(D) [(4)] the amount of any bond required;

(E) [(5)] if it is a guardianship of the estate of the ward and the court considers an appraisal to be necessary, one, two, or three disinterested persons to appraise the estate and to return the appraisement to the court; and

(F) [(6)] that the clerk will issue letters of guardianship to the person appointed when the person has qualified according to law; and

(2) if the court waives the guardian's training requirement, contain a finding that the waiver is in accordance with rules adopted by the supreme court under Section 155.203, Government Code.

SECTION 23. Section 1103.003, Estates Code, is amended to read as follows:

Sec. 1103.003. EFFECTIVE DATE OF GUARDIANSHIP. If the application filed under Section 1103.001 is heard before the proposed ward's 18th birthday, a guardianship created under this chapter may not take effect and the person appointed guardian may not take the oath or make the declaration as required under Section 1105.051 or give a bond as required under Section 1105.101 until the proposed ward's 18th birthday.

SECTION 24. Section 1105.001, Estates Code, is amended by adding Subdivision (1-a) and amending Subdivision (2) to read as follows:

(1-a) "Declaration" means a declaration taken by a person appointed to serve as a guardian to qualify to serve.

(2) "Oath" means an oath [required by this chapter to be] taken by a person appointed to serve as a guardian to qualify to serve.

SECTION 25. Section 1105.002, Estates Code, is amended to read as follows:

Sec. 1105.002. MANNER OF QUALIFICATION OF GUARDIAN. (a) Except as provided by Subsection (b), a guardian is considered to have qualified when the guardian has:

(1) taken and filed the oath, or made and filed the declaration, required under Section 1105.051;

(2) given the required bond;

(3) filed the bond with the clerk; and

(4) obtained the judge's approval of the bond.

(b) A guardian who is not required to give a bond is considered to have qualified when the guardian has taken and filed the [required] oath, or made and filed the declaration, as required under Section 1105.051.

SECTION 26. Section 1105.003, Estates Code, is amended to read as follows:

Sec. 1105.003. PERIOD FOR TAKING OATH OR MAKING DECLARATION AND GIVING BOND. (a) Except as provided by Section 1103.003, an oath may be taken and subscribed or a declaration may be made, and a bond may be given and approved, at any time before:

(1) the 21st day after the date of the order granting letters of guardianship; or

(2) the letters of guardianship are revoked for a failure to qualify within the period allowed.

(b) A guardian of an estate must give a bond before being issued letters of guardianship unless a bond is not required under this title.

SECTION 27. The heading to Subchapter B, Chapter 1105, Estates Code, is amended to read as follows:

SUBCHAPTER B. OATHS AND DECLARATIONS

SECTION 28. Section 1105.051, Estates Code, is amended to read as follows:

Sec. 1105.051. OATH OR DECLARATION OF GUARDIAN. (a) A guardian shall:

(1) take an oath to discharge faithfully the duties of guardian for the person or estate, or both, of a ward; or

(2) make a declaration as prescribed by Subsection (d).

(b) If the Health and Human [Department of Aging and Disability] Services Commission is appointed guardian, a commission [department] representative shall take the oath or make the declaration required by Subsection (a).

(c) An oath taken by a person named as guardian or temporary guardian, as applicable, must be substantially as follows:

I, __________ (insert person's name), do solemnly swear that I will discharge faithfully the duties of guardian of __________ (insert "the person," "the estate," or "the person and estate") of __________ (insert ward's name), an incapacitated person, according to law.

(d) A declaration made by a person named as guardian or temporary guardian, as applicable, must be substantially as follows:

My name is _______ (insert person's name), my date of birth is __________ (insert person's date of birth), and my address is __________ (insert person's address, including country). I declare under penalty of perjury that the information in this declaration is true and correct. I solemnly declare that I will discharge faithfully the duties of __________ (insert "guardian" or "temporary guardian," as applicable) of __________ (insert "the person," "the estate," or "the person and estate") of __________ (insert ward's name), an incapacitated person, according to law. Signed on __________ (insert date of signing).

SECTION 29. Section 1105.052, Estates Code, is amended to read as follows:

Sec. 1105.052. ADMINISTRATION OF OATH OR MAKING OF DECLARATION. The [An] oath prescribed by Section 1105.051 may be taken before any person authorized to administer oaths under the laws of this state. The declaration prescribed by Section 1105.051 must be signed by the declarant.

SECTION 30. Section 1105.103(f), Estates Code, is amended to read as follows:

(f) If the guardian fails to give the bond required under Subsection (d) and the judge has not extended the period for giving the bond, the judge, without citation, shall remove the guardian and appoint a competent person as guardian, who shall:

(1) administer the guardianship according to the provisions of a will or law;

(2) take the oath or make the declaration required of a guardian under Section 1105.051 before the person enters on the administration of the guardianship; and

(3) give bond in the same manner and in the same amount provided by this title for the issuance of original letters of guardianship.

SECTION 31. Subchapter A, Chapter 1151, Estates Code, is amended by adding Section 1151.005 to read as follows:

Sec. 1151.005. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS IN WHICH WARD IS PARTY OR WITNESS. The guardian of the person or of the estate of a ward may not be excluded from attending a legal proceeding in which the ward is:

(1) a party; or

(2) participating as a witness.

SECTION 32. Section 1151.351(b), Estates Code, is amended to read as follows:

(b) Unless limited by a court or otherwise restricted by law, a ward is authorized to the following:

(1) to have a copy of the guardianship order and letters of guardianship and contact information for the probate court that issued the order and letters;

(2) to have a guardianship that encourages the development or maintenance of maximum self-reliance and independence in the ward with the eventual goal, if possible, of self-sufficiency;

(3) to be treated with respect, consideration, and recognition of the ward's dignity and individuality;

(4) to reside and receive support services in the most integrated setting, including home-based or other community-based settings, as required by Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (42 U.S.C. Section 12131 et seq.);

(5) to consideration of the ward's current and previously stated personal preferences, desires, medical and psychiatric treatment preferences, religious beliefs, living arrangements, and other preferences and opinions;

(6) to financial self-determination for all public benefits after essential living expenses and health needs are met and to have access to a monthly personal allowance;

(7) to receive timely and appropriate health care and medical treatment that does not violate the ward's rights granted by the constitution and laws of this state and the United States;

(8) to exercise full control of all aspects of life not specifically granted by the court to the guardian;

(9) to control the ward's personal environment based on the ward's preferences;

(10) to complain or raise concerns regarding the guardian or guardianship to the court, including living arrangements, retaliation by the guardian, conflicts of interest between the guardian and service providers, or a violation of any rights under this section;

(11) to receive notice in the ward's native language, or preferred mode of communication, and in a manner accessible to the ward, of a court proceeding to continue, modify, or terminate the guardianship and the opportunity to appear before the court to express the ward's preferences and concerns regarding whether the guardianship should be continued, modified, or terminated;

(12) to have a court investigator or[,] guardian ad litem[, or attorney ad litem] appointed by the court to investigate a complaint received by the court from the ward or any person about the guardianship;

(13) to participate in social, religious, and recreational activities, training, employment, education, habilitation, and rehabilitation of the ward's choice in the most integrated setting;

(14) to self-determination in the substantial maintenance, disposition, and management of real and personal property after essential living expenses and health needs are met, including the right to receive notice and object about the substantial maintenance, disposition, or management of clothing, furniture, vehicles, and other personal effects;

(15) to personal privacy and confidentiality in personal matters, subject to state and federal law;

(16) to unimpeded, private, and uncensored communication and visitation with persons of the ward's choice, except that if the guardian determines that certain communication or visitation causes substantial harm to the ward:

(A) the guardian may limit, supervise, or restrict communication or visitation, but only to the extent necessary to protect the ward from substantial harm; and

(B) the ward may request a hearing to remove any restrictions on communication or visitation imposed by the guardian under Paragraph (A);

(17) to petition the court and retain counsel of the ward's choice who holds a certificate required by Subchapter E, Chapter 1054, to represent the ward's interest for capacity restoration, modification of the guardianship, the appointment of a different guardian, or for other appropriate relief under this subchapter, including a transition to a supported decision-making agreement, except as limited by Section 1054.006;

(18) to vote in a public election, marry, and retain a license to operate a motor vehicle, unless restricted by the court;

(19) to personal visits from the guardian or the guardian's designee at least once every three months, but more often, if necessary, unless the court orders otherwise;

(20) to be informed of the name, address, phone number, and purpose of Disability Rights Texas, an organization whose mission is to protect the rights of, and advocate for, persons with disabilities, and to communicate and meet with representatives of that organization;

(21) to be informed of the name, address, phone number, and purpose of an independent living center, an area agency on aging, an aging and disability resource center, and the local mental health and intellectual and developmental disability center, and to communicate and meet with representatives from these agencies and organizations;

(22) to be informed of the name, address, phone number, and purpose of the Judicial Branch Certification Commission and the procedure for filing a complaint against a certified guardian;

(23) to contact the Department of Family and Protective Services to report abuse, neglect, exploitation, or violation of personal rights without fear of punishment, interference, coercion, or retaliation;

(24) to have the guardian, on appointment and on annual renewal of the guardianship, explain the rights delineated in this subsection in the ward's native language, or preferred mode of communication, and in a manner accessible to the ward; and

(25) to make decisions related to sexual assault crisis services, including consenting to a forensic medical examination and treatment, authorizing the collection of forensic evidence, consenting to the release of evidence contained in an evidence collection kit and disclosure of related confidential information, and receiving counseling and other support services.

SECTION 33. Sections 1153.001(a) and (c), Estates Code, are amended to read as follows:

(a) Within one month after receiving letters of guardianship, a guardian of an estate shall provide notice requiring each person who has a claim against the estate to present the claim within the period prescribed by law. The notice must be:

(1) published in a newspaper of general circulation [printed] in the county in which the letters were issued; and

(2) sent to the comptroller by certified or registered mail, if the ward remitted or should have remitted taxes administered by the comptroller.

(c) If there is no [a] newspaper of general circulation [is not printed] in the county in which the letters of guardianship were issued, the notice must be posted and the return made and filed as otherwise required by this title.

SECTION 34. Section 1155.054(d), Estates Code, is amended to read as follows:

(d) If the court finds that a party in a guardianship proceeding acted in bad faith or without just cause in prosecuting or objecting to an application in the proceeding, the court may order [require] the party to reimburse the ward's estate for all or part of the attorney's fees awarded under this section and shall issue judgment against the party and in favor of the estate for the amount of attorney's fees ordered [required] to be reimbursed to the estate.

SECTION 35. Section 1158.105(a), Estates Code, is amended to read as follows:

(a) A successful bid or contract for the sale of estate personal property shall be reported to the court. The laws regulating the approval [confirmation] or disapproval of a sale of real estate apply to the sale [of personal property], except that a conveyance is not required.

SECTION 36. The heading to Subchapter I, Chapter 1158, Estates Code, is amended to read as follows:

SUBCHAPTER I. SALE OF REAL ESTATE: PUBLIC AUCTION [SALE]

SECTION 37. Section 1158.401(a), Estates Code, is amended to read as follows:

(a) A public sale of real estate of an estate shall be made at public auction. Except as otherwise provided by Section 1158.403(c) [this title], the guardian of the estate shall advertise a public auction [sale] of real estate of the estate by a notice published in the county in which the estate is pending, as provided by this title for publication of notices or citations. The notice must [include a reference to]:

(1) include a reference to the order of sale;

(2) include the time, place, and required terms of sale; and

(3) briefly describe [a brief description of] the real estate to be sold.

SECTION 38. Section 1158.402, Estates Code, is amended to read as follows:

Sec. 1158.402. COMPLETION [METHOD] OF AUCTION [SALE]. A public auction [sale] of real estate of an estate shall be completed on the bid of [made at public auction to] the highest bidder.

SECTION 39. Section 1158.403, Estates Code, is amended to read as follows:

Sec. 1158.403. TIME AND PLACE OF AUCTION [SALE]. (a) Except as provided by Subsection (c), a public auction [sale] of real estate of an estate shall be held [made] at:

(1) the courthouse door in the county in which the real estate is located, or if the real estate is located in more than one county, the courthouse door in any county in which the real estate is located [guardianship proceedings are pending]; or

(2) another place in a [that] county described by Subdivision (1) at which auctions [sales] of real estate are specifically authorized to be held as designated by the commissioners court of the county under Section 51.002(a), Property Code [made].

(b) Except as otherwise provided by this subsection, the auction [The sale] must occur between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. on the first Tuesday of the month after publication of notice has been completed. If the first Tuesday of the month occurs on January 1 or July 4, the auction must occur between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. on the first Wednesday of the month.

(c) If the court considers it advisable, the court may order the auction [sale] to be held [made] in the county in which the proceedings are pending [real estate is located], in which event notice shall be published both in that county and in the county in which the real estate is located [proceedings are pending].

SECTION 40. Section 1158.404, Estates Code, is amended to read as follows:

Sec. 1158.404. CONTINUANCE OF AUCTION [SALE]. (a) A public auction [sale] of real estate of an estate that is not completed on the day advertised may be continued from day to day by an oral public announcement of the continuance made at the conclusion of the auction [sale] each day.

(b) A continued auction [sale] must occur within the hours prescribed by Section 1158.403(b).

(c) The continuance of an auction [a sale] under this section shall be shown in the report [of the sale] made to the court under Section 1158.551.

SECTION 41. Section 1158.405, Estates Code, is amended to read as follows:

Sec. 1158.405. FAILURE OF BIDDER TO COMPLY. (a) If a person who successfully bids on real estate of the guardianship estate offered [for sale] at public auction fails to comply with the terms of the bid [sale], the property [real estate] shall be readvertised and auctioned [sold] without any further order.

(b) The person defaulting on a bid as described by Subsection (a) is liable for payment to the guardian of the estate, for the estate's benefit, of:

(1) 10 percent of the amount of the bid; and

(2) the amount of any deficiency in price on the second auction [sale].

(c) The guardian shall recover the amounts under Subsection (b) by suit in any court in the county in which the auction [sale] was held [made] that has jurisdiction over the amount claimed.

SECTION 42. The heading to Subchapter J, Chapter 1158, Estates Code, is amended to read as follows:

SUBCHAPTER J. SALE OF REAL ESTATE: CONTRACT FOR PRIVATE SALE

SECTION 43. Section 1158.451, Estates Code, is amended to read as follows:

Sec. 1158.451. TERMS [MANNER] OF SALE. The guardian of the estate may enter into a contract for the [A] private sale of real estate of the estate [shall be] made in the manner the court directs in the order of sale. Unless the court directs otherwise, additional advertising, notice, or citation concerning the sale is not required.

SECTION 44. Section 1158.502, Estates Code, is amended to read as follows:

Sec. 1158.502. PROCEDURE. The procedure for the sale of an easement or right-of-way authorized under Section 1158.501 is the same as the procedure provided by law for a private sale of real property of a ward by contract [at private sale].

SECTION 45. The heading to Subchapter L, Chapter 1158, Estates Code, is amended to read as follows:

SUBCHAPTER L. APPROVAL [CONFIRMATION] OF SALE OF REAL PROPERTY AND

TRANSFER OF TITLE

SECTION 46. Section 1158.551, Estates Code, is amended to read as follows:

Sec. 1158.551. REPORT. A successful bid or private contract for the sale of estate real property shall be reported to the court ordering the sale not later than the 30th day after the date the bid [sale] is made or the property is placed under contract. The report must:

(1) be in writing, sworn to, and filed with the clerk;

(2) include:

(A) the date of the order of sale;

(B) a description of the property being sold;

(C) the time and place of the auction or date the property is placed under contract [sale];

(D) the purchaser's name;

(E) the amount of the successful bid or the purchase price for [which] each parcel of property or interest in the parcel of property auctioned or placed under contract [was sold];

(F) the terms of the sale;

(G) whether the proposed sale of the property was made at public auction or by contract [privately]; and

(H) whether the purchaser is ready to comply with the order of sale; and

(3) be noted on the guardianship docket.

SECTION 47. Section 1158.552, Estates Code, is amended to read as follows:

Sec. 1158.552. ACTION OF COURT ON REPORT [OF SALE]. After the expiration of five days from the date a report [of sale] is filed under Section 1158.551, the court shall:

(1) consider [inquire into] the manner in which the auction described in the report was held or the contract described in the report [sale] was entered into [made];

(2) consider [hear] evidence in support of or against the report; and

(3) determine the sufficiency or insufficiency of the guardian's general bond, if any has been required and given.

SECTION 48. Section 1158.553, Estates Code, is amended to read as follows:

Sec. 1158.553. APPROVAL [CONFIRMATION] OF SALE WHEN BOND NOT REQUIRED. If the guardian of the estate of a ward is not required by Subtitle D to give a general bond, the court may approve [confirm] the sale of estate real property in the manner provided by Section 1158.556(a) if the court finds that the sale is satisfactory and made in accordance with law.

SECTION 49. Sections 1158.554(a), (b), and (c), Estates Code, are amended to read as follows:

(a) If the guardian of an estate is required by Subtitle D to give a general bond, before the court approves [confirms] any sale of real estate, the court shall determine whether the bond is sufficient to protect the estate after the sale proceeds are received.

(b) If the court finds that the general bond is sufficient, the court may approve [confirm] the sale as provided by Section 1158.556(a).

(c) If the court finds that the general bond is insufficient, the court may not approve [confirm] the sale until the general bond is increased to the amount required by the court, or an additional bond is given, and approved by the court.

SECTION 50. Section 1158.556, Estates Code, is amended to read as follows:

Sec. 1158.556. APPROVAL [CONFIRMATION] OR DISAPPROVAL ORDER. (a) If the court is satisfied that the proposed sale of real property [a sale] reported under Section 1158.551 is [was] for a fair price, [was] properly made, and [was] in conformity with law, and the court has approved any increased or additional bond that the court found necessary to protect the estate, the court shall enter an order:

(1) approving [confirming] the sale;

(2) showing conformity with [the provisions of] this chapter [relating to the sale];

(3) detailing the terms of the sale; and

(4) authorizing the guardian of the estate to convey the property on the purchaser's compliance with the terms of the sale.

(b) If the court is not satisfied that the proposed sale of real property is [was] for a fair price, [was] properly made, and [was] in conformity with law, the court shall enter [issue] an order setting aside the bid or contract [sale] and ordering a new sale to be made, if necessary.

(c) The court's action in approving [confirming] or disapproving a report under Section 1158.551 [of a sale] has the effect of a final judgment. Any person interested in the guardianship estate or in the sale is entitled to have an order entered under this section reviewed as in other final judgments in probate proceedings.

SECTION 51. Section 1158.557, Estates Code, is amended to read as follows:

Sec. 1158.557. DEED. Real estate of an estate that is sold shall be conveyed by a proper deed that refers to and identifies the court order approving [confirming] the sale. The deed:

(1) vests in the purchaser all right and title of the estate to, and all interest of the estate in, the property; and

(2) is prima facie evidence that the sale has met all applicable requirements of the law.

SECTION 52. Section 1158.558(a), Estates Code, is amended to read as follows:

(a) After the court has approved [confirmed] a sale and the [one] purchaser has complied with the terms of the sale, the guardian of the estate shall promptly execute and deliver to the purchaser a proper deed conveying the property.

SECTION 53. Section 1163.005(a), Estates Code, is amended to read as follows:

(a) The guardian of the estate shall attach to an account the guardian's affidavit stating:

(1) that the account contains a correct and complete statement of the matters to which the account relates;

(2) that the guardian has paid the bond premium for the next accounting period;

(3) that the guardian has filed all tax returns of the ward due during the accounting period;

(4) that the guardian has paid all taxes the ward owed during the accounting period, the amount of the taxes, the date the guardian paid the taxes, and the name of the governmental entity to which the guardian paid the taxes; and

(5) if the guardian is a private professional guardian, a guardianship program, or the Health and Human Services Commission [Department of Aging and Disability Services], whether the guardian or an individual certified under Subchapter C, Chapter 155 [111], Government Code, who is providing guardianship services to the ward and who is swearing to the account on the guardian's behalf, is or has been the subject of an investigation conducted by the Judicial Branch [Guardianship] Certification Commission [Board] during the accounting period.

SECTION 54. Section 1163.101(c), Estates Code, is amended to read as follows:

(c) The guardian of the person shall file a sworn affidavit that contains:

(1) the guardian's current name, address, and telephone number;

(2) the ward's date of birth and current name, address, telephone number, and age;

(3) a description of the type of home in which the ward resides, which shall be described as:

(A) the ward's own home;

(B) a nursing home;

(C) a guardian's home;

(D) a foster home;

(E) a boarding home;

(F) a relative's home, in which case the description must specify the relative's relationship to the ward;

(G) a hospital or medical facility; or

(H) another type of residence;

(4) statements indicating:

(A) the length of time the ward has resided in the present home;

(B) the reason for a change in the ward's residence, if a change in the ward's residence has occurred in the past year;

(C) the date the guardian most recently saw the ward;

(D) how frequently the guardian has seen the ward in the past year;

(E) whether the guardian has possession or control of the ward's estate;

(F) whether the ward's mental health has improved, deteriorated, or remained unchanged during the past year, including a description of the change if a change has occurred;

(G) whether the ward's physical health has improved, deteriorated, or remained unchanged during the past year, including a description of the change if a change has occurred;

(H) whether the ward has regular medical care; and

(I) the ward's treatment or evaluation by any of the following persons during the past year, including the person's name and a description of the treatment:

(i) a physician;

(ii) a psychiatrist, psychologist, or other mental health care provider;

(iii) a dentist;

(iv) a social or other caseworker; or

(v) any other individual who provided treatment;

(5) a description of the ward's activities during the past year, including recreational, educational, social, and occupational activities, or a statement that no activities were available or that the ward was unable or refused to participate in activities;

(6) the guardian's evaluation of:

(A) the ward's living arrangements as excellent, average, or below average, including an explanation if the conditions are below average;

(B) whether the ward is content or unhappy with the ward's living arrangements; and

(C) unmet needs of the ward;

(7) a statement indicating whether the guardian's power should be increased, decreased, or unaltered, including an explanation if a change is recommended;

(8) a statement indicating that the guardian has paid the bond premium for the next reporting period;

(9) if the guardian is a private professional guardian, a guardianship program, or the Health and Human Services Commission [Department of Aging and Disability Services], whether the guardian or an individual certified under Subchapter C, Chapter 155, Government Code, who is providing guardianship services to the ward and who is filing the affidavit on the guardian's behalf, is or has been the subject of an investigation conducted by the Judicial Branch [Guardianship] Certification Commission [Board] during the preceding year; and

(10) any additional information the guardian desires to share with the court regarding the ward, including:

(A) whether the guardian has filed for emergency detention of the ward under Subchapter A, Chapter 573, Health and Safety Code; and

(B) if applicable, the number of times the guardian has filed for emergency detention and the dates of the applications for emergency detention.

SECTION 55. Section 1251.005, Estates Code, is amended to read as follows:

Sec. 1251.005. CITATION AND NOTICE OF APPLICATION. (a) On the filing of an application for temporary guardianship, the court clerk shall issue:

(1) citation [notice] to be served on:

(A) [(1)] the proposed ward; and

(B) [(2) the proposed ward's appointed attorney; and

[(3)] the proposed temporary guardian named in the application, if that person is not the applicant; and

(2) notice to be served on the proposed ward's appointed attorney.

(b) The citation or notice issued as provided by Subsection (a) must describe:

(1) the rights of the parties; and

(2) the date, time, place, purpose, and possible consequences of a hearing on the application.

(b-1) The citation issued as provided by Subsection (a) must contain a statement regarding the authority of a person under Section 1051.252 who is interested in the estate or welfare of a proposed ward or, if a guardianship is created, the ward to file with the county clerk a written request to be notified of all, or any specified, motions, applications, or pleadings filed with respect to the temporary guardianship proceeding by any person or by a person specifically designated in the request.

(c) A copy of the application must be attached to the citation or notice.

SECTION 56. Sections 1251.101(a), (b), and (d), Estates Code, are amended to read as follows:

(a) When the temporary guardian files the oath or declaration prescribed by Section 1105.051 and the bond required under this title, the court order appointing the temporary guardian takes effect without the necessity for issuance of letters of guardianship.

(b) The clerk shall note compliance with the oath or declaration and bond requirements by the appointed temporary guardian on a certificate attached to the order.

(d) The clerk may not issue certified copies of the order until the oath or declaration and bond requirements are satisfied.

SECTION 57. The heading to Section 1251.153, Estates Code, is amended to read as follows:

Sec. 1251.153. DELIVERY OF ESTATE, FILING OF FINAL REPORT, AND[;] DISCHARGE OF TEMPORARY GUARDIAN.

SECTION 58. Section 1251.153, Estates Code, is amended by adding Subsection (a-1) and amending Subsection (b) to read as follows:

(a-1) At the expiration of a temporary guardianship of the person, the temporary guardian shall file with the court clerk a final report that:

(1) if the ward is living, describes each reason the temporary guardianship of the person expired, including a statement of facts regarding whether the temporary guardianship expired because:

(A) the ward was found by the court to have full capacity, or sufficient capacity with supports and services, to care for himself or herself;

(B) alternatives to guardianship have been established to meet the needs of the ward; or

(C) a permanent guardian appointed by the court has qualified to serve as the ward's guardian; or

(2) if the ward is deceased, includes the date and place of death, if known, in the form and manner of the report required to be filed by a guardian of the person under Section 1163.103.

(b) On proof of delivery under Subsection (a) and approval by the court of a final report filed with the court clerk under Subsection (a-1), as applicable:

(1) the temporary guardian shall be discharged; and

(2) the sureties on the temporary guardian's bond shall be released as to future liability.

SECTION 59. Section 1253.001, Estates Code, is amended to read as follows:

Sec. 1253.001. APPLICATION TO TRANSFER GUARDIANSHIP TO FOREIGN JURISDICTION. On application of the guardian or on the court's own motion, a [A guardian of the person or estate may apply to the] court that has jurisdiction over the guardianship may [to] transfer the guardianship to a court in a foreign jurisdiction to which the ward has permanently moved.

SECTION 60. Subchapter B, Chapter 1301, Estates Code, is amended by adding Section 1301.0511 to read as follows:

Sec. 1301.0511. NOTICE REQUIRED FOR APPLICATION FOR CREATION OF TRUST; CITATION OF APPLICANT NOT REQUIRED. (a) On the filing of an application for creation of a management trust and except as provided by Subsection (d), notice shall be issued and served in the manner provided by Subchapter C, Chapter 1051, for the issuance and service of notice on the filing of an application for guardianship.

(b) It is not necessary to serve a citation on a person who files an application for the creation of a management trust under this subchapter or for that person to waive the issuance and personal service of citation.

(c) If the person for whom an application for creation of a management trust is filed is a ward, the sheriff or other officer, in addition to serving the persons described by Section 1051.103, shall personally serve each guardian of the ward with citation to appear and answer the application.

(d) Notice under this section is not required if a proceeding for the appointment of a guardian is pending for the person for whom an application for creation of a management trust is filed.

SECTION 61. Section 1301.101(a), Estates Code, is amended to read as follows:

(a) Except as provided by Subsection (c), a management trust created for a ward or incapacitated person must provide that:

(1) the ward or incapacitated person is the sole beneficiary of the trust;

(2) the trustee may disburse an amount of the trust's principal or income as the trustee determines is necessary to spend for the health, education, maintenance, or support of the person for whom the trust is created;

(3) the trust income that the trustee does not disburse under Subdivision (2) must be added to the trust principal;

(4) a trustee that is a corporate fiduciary serves without giving a bond; [and]

(5) subject to the court's approval and Subsection (b), a trustee is entitled to receive reasonable compensation for services the trustee provides to the person for whom the trust is created as the person's trustee; and

(6) the trust terminates:

(A) except as provided by Paragraph (B), if the person for whom the trust is created is a minor:

(i) on the earlier of:

(a) the person's death; or

(b) the person's 18th birthday; or

(ii) on the date provided by court order, which may not be later than the person's 25th birthday;

(B) if the person for whom the trust is created is a minor and is also incapacitated for a reason other than being a minor:

(i) on the person's death; or

(ii) when the person regains capacity; or

(C) if the person for whom the trust is created is not a minor:

(i) according to the terms of the trust;

(ii) on the date the court determines that continuing the trust is no longer in the person's best interests, subject to Section 1301.202(c); or

(iii) on the person's death.

SECTION 62. Section 1301.154(b), Estates Code, is amended to read as follows:

(b) The trustee of a management trust created for a ward shall provide a copy of the annual account to each [the] guardian of the ward [ward's estate or person].

SECTION 63. Section 1301.203, Estates Code, is amended by amending Subsection (a) and adding Subsection (a-1) to read as follows:

(a) Except as provided by Subsection (a-1), if [If] the person for whom a management trust is created is a minor, the trust terminates on:

(1) the earlier of:

(A) the person's death; or

(B) the person's 18th birthday; or

(2) the date provided by court order, which may not be later than the person's 25th birthday.

(a-1) If the person for whom a management trust is created is a minor and is also incapacitated for a reason other than being a minor, the trust terminates:

(1) on the person's death; or

(2) when the person regains capacity.

SECTION 64. Sections 1355.002(b), (c), (d), (e), and (f), Estates Code, are amended to read as follows:

(b) This section applies only to a nonresident creditor who is:

(1) a nonresident minor and has a nonresident guardian of the estate appointed by a foreign court;

(2) [,] a nonresident person who is adjudged by a foreign court [of competent jurisdiction] to be incapacitated and has a nonresident guardian of the estate appointed by that court;[,] or

(3) the nonresident former ward of a guardianship terminated under Chapter 1204 who has no legal guardian qualified in this state.

(c) A debtor in this state who owes money to a nonresident creditor to whom this section applies may pay the money:

(1) to the creditor's guardian of the estate qualified in the domiciliary jurisdiction; or

(2) to the county clerk of:

(A) any county in this state in which real property owned by the creditor is located; or

(B) if the creditor is not known to own real property in this state, the county in which the debtor resides.

(d) A payment made under this section is for the nonresident creditor's account and for the nonresident creditor's use and benefit.

(e) A receipt for payment signed by the county clerk is binding on the nonresident creditor as of the date and to the extent of payment if the receipt states:

(1) the creditor's name; and

(2) the creditor's post office address, if the address is known.

(f) A county clerk who receives a payment under Subsection (c) for a nonresident creditor shall handle the money in the same manner as provided for a payment to the account of a resident creditor under Sections 1355.001, 1355.051, 1355.052, 1355.102, 1355.103, and 1355.104. Those sections apply to the handling and disposition of money or any increase, dividend, or income paid to the clerk for the use, benefit, and account of the nonresident creditor to whom this section applies.

SECTION 65. Section 1355.105, Estates Code, is amended to read as follows:

Sec. 1355.105. WITHDRAWAL OF MONEY BY CREDITOR OR CREDITOR'S HEIR, [OR] REPRESENTATIVE, OR GUARDIAN. (a) On presentation to the court clerk of an order of a county or probate court of the county in which the money is held, money that is not withdrawn by an authorized person as provided by this chapter may be withdrawn by:

(1) the creditor, after termination of the creditor's disability;

(2) a subsequent personal representative of the creditor; [or]

(3) the creditor's heirs; or

(4) a nonresident guardian of the estate appointed by a foreign court for a creditor who is:

(A) a nonresident minor; or

(B) a nonresident person who is adjudged to be incapacitated.

(b) Except as provided by Subsection (b-1), a [A] withdrawal under Subsection (a) may be made at any time and without a special bond for that purpose.

(b-1) A court may require a nonresident guardian of the estate of a creditor who is a nonresident minor or nonresident incapacitated person as described by Subsection (a)(4) to provide proof that the nonresident guardian of the estate gave an adequate bond in the foreign jurisdiction if the court determines that it is in the nonresident minor's or nonresident incapacitated person's best interest.

(c) The order presented under Subsection (a) must direct the court clerk to deliver the money to:

(1) the creditor;

(2) [,] the creditor's personal representative;

(3) [, or] the creditor's heirs named in the order; or

(4) if the creditor is a nonresident minor or nonresident person who is adjudged to be incapacitated, the creditor's nonresident guardian of the estate.

(d) Before the court may issue an order under this section, the person's identity and credentials must be proved to the court's satisfaction. For purposes of this subsection, a nonresident guardian of the estate described by Subsection (c)(4) must present to the court exemplified copies of the order of a foreign court appointing the guardian and current letters of guardianship issued in the foreign jurisdiction.

SECTION 66. Section 25.0006, Government Code, is amended by amending Subsection (a) and adding Subsection (a-5) to read as follows:

(a) Notwithstanding any other law except Subsection (a-4), Subsections (a-1), (a-2), [and] (a-3), and (a-5) control over a specific provision for a particular court or county that attempts to create a requirement for a bond or insurance that conflicts with those subsections.

(a-5) A bond executed under Subsection (a-1) by the judge elected or appointed to a statutory county court or an insurance policy obtained under Subsection (a-3) shall provide the same coverage to a visiting judge assigned to the court or associate judge appointed to serve the court as the bond or insurance policy provides to the judge elected or appointed to the court.

SECTION 67. Section 25.00231, Government Code, is amended by adding Subsection (f) to read as follows:

(f) Notwithstanding Subsection (e), a bond executed under Subsection (b) by the judge elected or appointed to a statutory probate court or an insurance policy obtained under Subsection (c) shall provide the same coverage to a visiting judge assigned to the court or to an associate judge appointed by the court as the bond or insurance policy provides to the judge elected or appointed to the court.

SECTION 68. Section 25.0027, Government Code, is amended to read as follows:

Sec. 25.0027. JURIES; PRACTICE AND PROCEDURE. The drawing of jury panels, selection of jurors, and practice in the statutory probate courts must conform to that prescribed by law for county courts, except that practice, procedure, rules of evidence, issuance of process and writs, juries, including the number of jurors provided the parties to a proceeding may agree to try a particular case with fewer than 12 jurors, and all other matters pertaining to the conduct of trials and hearings in the statutory probate courts involving those matters of concurrent jurisdiction with district courts are governed by the laws and rules pertaining to district courts.

SECTION 69. Section 74.141, Government Code, is amended to read as follows:

Sec. 74.141. DEFENSE OF JUDGES. The attorney general shall defend a state district judge, a presiding judge of an administrative region, the presiding judge of the statutory probate courts, a visiting judge assigned to hear a guardianship or probate matter by the presiding judge of the statutory probate courts, or an active, retired, or former judge assigned under this chapter in any action or suit in any court in which the judge is a defendant because of the judge's [his] office or capacity as judge if the judge requests the attorney general's assistance in the defense of the suit.

SECTION 70. Section 81.114, Government Code, is amended by amending Subsection (a) and adding Subsection (e) to read as follows:

(a) The state bar shall provide a course of instruction for attorneys who represent any person's interests [parties] in guardianship cases or who serve as court-appointed guardians.

(e) The course of instruction described by this section must be low-cost and available to persons throughout this state, including on the Internet provided through the state bar.

SECTION 71. Section 155.205(b), Government Code, is amended to read as follows:

(b) The commission shall obtain:

(1) fingerprint-based criminal history record information of a proposed guardian [an applicant] if:

(A) the liquid assets of the estate of a ward exceed $50,000; or

(B) the proposed guardian is not a resident of this state; or

(2) name-based criminal history record information of a proposed guardian, including any criminal history record information under the current name and all former names of the proposed guardian, [an applicant] if:

(A) the liquid assets of the estate of a ward are $50,000 or less; and

(B) the proposed guardian is a resident of this state.

SECTION 72. (a) Except as otherwise provided by this Act, the changes in law made by this Act apply to:

(1) a guardianship created before, on, or after the effective date of this Act; and

(2) an application for a guardianship pending on, or filed on or after, the effective date of this Act.

(b) Section 202.054, Estates Code, as amended by this Act, applies only to a proceeding to declare heirship commenced on or after the effective date of this Act. A proceeding to declare heirship commenced before that date is governed by the law in effect on the date the proceeding was commenced, and the former law is continued in effect for that purpose.

(c) Section 452.006(c), Estates Code, as added by this Act, applies only to a temporary administrator appointed on or after the effective date of this Act. A temporary administrator appointed before the effective date of this Act is governed by the law in effect on the date the administrator was appointed, and the former law is continued in effect for that purpose.

(d) Section 503.002, Estates Code, as amended by this Act, applies only to a copy of a testamentary instrument or other document filed for recording on or after the effective date of this Act. A copy of a testamentary instrument or other document filed before the effective date of this Act is governed by the law in effect on the date the instrument or document was filed, and the former law is continued in effect for that purpose.

(e) The changes in law made by this Act to Section 1021.001, Estates Code, apply only to an action filed on or after the effective date of this Act. An action filed before the effective date of this Act is governed by the law in effect on the date the action was filed, and the former law is continued in effect for that purpose.

(f) Sections 1101.001 and 1251.005, Estates Code, as amended by this Act, apply only to an application for the appointment of a guardian or temporary guardian filed on or after the effective date of this Act. An application for the appointment of a guardian or temporary guardian filed before the effective date of this Act is governed by the law in effect on the date the application was filed, and the former law is continued in effect for that purpose.

(g) Sections 1054.201 and 1101.153, Estates Code, as amended by this Act, and Section 155.205, Government Code, as amended by this Act, apply only to a guardianship proceeding commenced on or after the effective date of this Act. A guardianship proceeding commenced before the effective date of this Act is governed by the law applicable to the proceeding immediately before the effective date of this Act, and the former law is continued in effect for that purpose.

(h) The changes in law made by this Act to Section 1251.101, Estates Code, and Chapter 1105, Estates Code, apply only to the qualification of a guardian that occurs on or after the effective date of this Act. The qualification of a guardian that occurs before the effective date of this Act is governed by the law in effect on the date the guardian qualifies to serve, and the former law is continued in effect for that purpose.

(i) Section 1301.0511, Estates Code, as added by this Act, applies only to an application for creation of a management trust filed on or after the effective date of this Act. An application for creation of a management trust filed before the effective date of this Act is governed by the law in effect on the date the application was filed, and the former law is continued in effect for that purpose.

(j) The changes in law made by this Act to Sections 1301.101 and 1301.203, Estates Code, apply only to an application for the creation or modification of a management trust filed on or after the effective date of this Act. An application for the creation or modification of a management trust filed before the effective date of this Act is governed by the law in effect on the date the application was filed, and the former law is continued in effect for that purpose.

(k) The changes in law made by this Act to Section 1355.105, Estates Code, apply only to an application for an order for the delivery of money that is filed on or after the effective date of this Act. An application for an order for the delivery of money that is filed before the effective date of this Act is governed by the law in effect on the date the application was filed, and the former law is continued in effect for that purpose.

(l) The changes in law made by this Act to Sections 25.0006 and 25.00231, Government Code, apply only to an insurance policy delivered, issued for delivery, or renewed on or after January 1, 2022. An insurance policy delivered, issued for delivery, or renewed before January 1, 2022, is governed by the law as it existed immediately before the effective date of this Act, and that law is continued in effect for that purpose.

(m) Section 74.141, Government Code, as amended by this Act, applies to a cause of action filed on or after the effective date of this Act. A cause of action filed before the effective date of this Act is governed by the law in effect immediately before the effective date of this Act, and that law is continued in effect for that purpose.

SECTION 73. This Act takes effect September 1, 2021.

______________________________ ______________________________

President of the Senate Speaker of the House

I hereby certify that S.B. No. 626 passed the Senate on March 25, 2021, by the following vote: Yeas 30, Nays 0; May 25, 2021, Senate refused to concur in House amendments and requested appointment of Conference Committee; May 27, 2021, House granted request of the Senate; May 29, 2021, Senate adopted Conference Committee Report by the following vote: Yeas 31, Nays 0.

______________________________ Secretary of the Senate

I hereby certify that S.B. No. 626 passed the House, with amendments, on May 20, 2021, by the following vote: Yeas 146, Nays 0, one present not voting; May 27, 2021, House granted request of the Senate for appointment of Conference Committee; May 30, 2021, House adopted Conference Committee Report by the following vote: Yeas 139, Nays 1, one present not voting.

______________________________ Chief Clerk of the House

Approved:

______________________________

Date

______________________________

Governor