Legislation sponsored by Sens. Lisa Baker, R-Luzerne, and Art Haywood, D-Montgomery, to safeguard the dignity of adults in need of guardianship was signed into law by Gov. Josh Shapiro.

Senate Bill 506—now Act 61 of 2023—marks a significant stride in protecting vulnerable adults from abuse, neglect and exploitation within the guardianship system. Currently, Pennsylvania has more than 19,000 active guardianships. While many serve their intended purpose, some result in devastating abuse and exploitation. Recent trends indicate an alarming increase in the frequency of guardianship appointments.