Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania has not enacted supported decision-making legislation, and no SDM-related bills are currently pending. However, under Pennsylvania guardianship law, a court may appoint a guardian only if it finds that no less restrictive alternative will adequately meet the individual’s needs. While not codified in statute, supported decision-making may be considered by courts as a potential less restrictive alternative under this standard. One Pennsylvania appellate case, In re Peery, reversed a guardianship order because the individual had a “circle of support” helping her make decisions.