SB55 Alabama 2023 Session

Updated Feb 22, 2026

Summary

Primary Sponsor: Arthur OrrSenator
Republican
Session: Regular Session 2023
Title: Relating to guardianships and conservatorships; to create the Colby Act; to provide for a supported decision-making agreement as an alternative to a guardianship or conservatorship; and to provide the scope and limitations of a supported decision-making agreement.
Summary: SB55 creates the Colby Act, establishing a supported decision-making option that lets adults obtain help from designated supporters instead of needing guardianship or conservatorship.
What This Bill Does
The act allows an adult to voluntarily enter a written supported decision-making agreement with supporters to assist in making decisions without taking away the adult’s self-determination. Supporters must act in the adult’s best interest as directed by the agreement, stay within its scope, and may be appointed for multiple areas of decision-making; the adult can revoke or amend the agreement. The agreement is not evidence of incapacity and cannot be used to force a guardianship, though courts may still appoint guardians or conservators in other circumstances. It also sets rules for creating, signing, and terminating the agreement, and outlines duties and protections for both the adult and supporters.

Who It Affects
Adults who could be subject to guardianship or conservatorship and want to maintain decision-making control by using a supported decision-making agreement.
Supporters (adults 18+ designated in the agreement) who assist with decisions and guardians/conservators who interact with the agreement, including ensuring it does not improperly replace court-appointed authority.

Key Provisions
Establishes the Colby Act and defines key terms: supported decision-making, supported decision-making agreement, and supporter.
Sets requirements for creating and operating a supported decision-making agreement, including voluntary participation, writing and signatures, designation of supporters, scope of assistance, ability to revoke, and interaction with guardianship.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 22, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.