On July 23, 2026, two bills were enacted and made immediately effective that affect the administration of guardianship and conservatorship matters. 

Senate Bill 585 - amending MCL 700.5423 (3), requires Petitions Regarding Real Estate/Dwelling (PC 646) must now include an appraisal of the value of the property conducted within the preceding 6 months by a professional licensed appraiser.

Senate Bill 586 - MCL 700.5306b is a new statute which states an individual has a right, if possible, to remain in their own surroundings or, if not possible, in the least restrictive environment.  The new law requires that before moving a ward from their permanent residence, a guardian must file a petition with the court, the court must appoint a GAL, and a hearing must be held within 28 days. 

The statute states the guardian must use a petition created by the State Court Administrative Office (SCAO) form for the Petition to Change Residence, however no form has yet been created by the SCAO.  A petition and an order have been created to assist in the meantime.  The forms are linked below.

• Petition to Change Permanent Residence of Legally Incapacitated Individual (PEMH 1152)
• Order on Petition to Change Permanent Residence of Legally Incapacitated Individual (PEMH 1153)

 Once the SCAO forms are created, their use will be required, pursuant to MCR 5.113(A).