Arizona House Passes Bill to Streamline Guardianship Process for Minors

The Arizona House of Representatives passed HB2079 on Monday, a bill introduced by Representative Walt Blackman aimed at streamlining the guardianship process and prioritizing the best interests of minors. The legislation seeks to remove bureaucratic delays and ensure stable homes for children, particularly those from complex or unstable family situations.

Currently, minors often face unnecessary legal obstacles when seeking a guardian. HB2079 addresses these issues by ensuring decisions are based on the child’s best interests, providing clearer pathways for 16- and 17-year-olds without parental support, and allowing courts to extend temporary guardianships when necessary. The bill also aims to reduce delays by focusing on stability over bureaucratic hurdles, with an emphasis on due diligence in locating a child’s living parent.

“This bill is about one thing and one thing only: putting kids first,” said Representative Blackman. “We won’t let outdated legal hurdles prevent children from getting the care and stability they need.”

The bill has received strong bipartisan support, particularly from child advocacy groups and family law experts, and is now set to move to the Senate for further consideration. If passed, HB2079 will provide vulnerable youth with the support and stability they deserve.

Representative Walt Blackman serves Legislative District 7 and is the Chairman of the House Government Committee.