NEW JERSEY — A Sussex County mother’s advocacy on behalf of her adult child with disabilities has led to legislative change, as state lawmakers on Thursday passed a bill to reform New Jersey’s guardianship process. The bill now heads to Gov. Phil Murphy’s desk for consideration.
The legislation, sponsored by Assemblyman Michael Inganamort (R-Morris), would allow parents of children with developmental disabilities to apply for guardianship before their child turns 18. The bill — A3893/S2332 — aims to ensure continuity of care and prevent delays that have left families without legal authority to make decisions during a critical transitional period.
“Parents of children who have medically complex needs or require everyday decision-making assistance are some of the most selfless and tireless advocates I have ever had the pleasure to serve,” Inganamort said in a statement. “They shouldn’t have to battle a legal system to ensure their child remains protected.”
The bill was born out of real-life experience during the COVID-19 pandemic, when a Sussex County learning disabilities teacher — and parent of a child with disabilities — found herself unable to make decisions for her son after he turned 18. Current law prevents parents from applying for guardianship until a child legally becomes an adult, and pandemic-related court delays made the situation worse.
Her story reached then-Sen. Steve Oroho, who helped initiate the legislation.
Inganamort called the bill “commonsense and compassionate” and emphasized that it addresses a gap that has left many families in legal limbo.
“The opportunity to initiate guardianship proceedings early means vulnerable children aren’t left in limbo,” he said. “This is a bipartisan solution that protects the interests of children who will always rely on a specific system of care and a loving family.”
