Shana Siegel, Esq. Testified on Behalf of NJ National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (NAELA)

Recently, the Assembly Health Committee held its hearing on A4000, a bill that would create a new Office of Professional Corporate Guardians in New Jersey. While the bill advanced, lawmakers raised numerous concerns about its impact on vulnerable adults and the families who rely on strong guardianship protections.

We’re proud that Shana Schiffman Siegel, Esq., Chair of our Elder Care & Special Needs Practice Group, testified on behalf of NJ National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (NAELA) and played a leading role in opposing the bill alongside the NJ Bar Elder Law Section and advocates for individuals with developmental disabilities. During her testimony, Shana said “NJ NAELA believes that this Bill unintentionally creates the risk of abuse, erodes critical due process protection, and appears to pave the way for private for-profit companies to dominate guardianship services in New Jersey in ways that threaten incapacitated individuals.”

Her testimony helped ensure that committee members heard directly from professionals who work every day with New Jersey’s seniors and adults with disabilities.

Although A4000 was released from committee, it did so with abstentions, a no vote, and significant unanswered questions. It will now head to the Appropriations Committee for further review. The Senate companion bill has still not been scheduled for a hearing.

We are grateful for Shana’s leadership and tireless advocacy on behalf of New Jersey’s older adults, families, and individuals with disabilities.