The Illinois House Judiciary Civil Committee today advanced two Illinois Chapter of the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (IL NAELA) bills for consideration: Power of Attorney – Property (HB4462) and Guardian ad Litem (GAL) Substitution (HB4463). Both measures, sponsored by Representative Jennifer Gong-Gershowitz, received bipartisan support in committee.

IL NAELA Past President Melissa Johnson testified in support of both bills, helping clarify key provisions—particularly the additional burdens current law places on attorneys in the administration of Powers of Attorney. Her testimony played a critical role in building bipartisan understanding and support for HB4462.

The GAL Substitution bill (HB4463) also passed committee and may be further refined with a clarifying amendment as it moves forward in the legislative process.

Representative Ann Williams also spoke in support of the legislation, sharing personal insight into her family’s experience navigating Powers of Attorney. She emphasized the need to reduce practical burdens families face when managing these important legal documents in real-world situations.