Minnesota attorney general wants deeper background checks on guardians

After hundreds of allegations of guardian abuse, neglect and theft across the nation, Minnesota Attorney General Lori Swanson wants a more rigorous background check process for all guardians and conservators in Minnesota.

She is backing legislation, written by state Rep. Debra Hilstrom, DFL-Brooklyn Center, and Sen. Ron Latz, DFL-St. Louis Park, that would provide greater protection to vulnerable adults under the care of guardians.

"This legislation would update Minnesota law to help ensure that guardians meet the high standards necessary to look after another person," Swanson said.

The proposed legislation would require guardian background checks every two years instead of the current five years. It would expand the checks to include whether a guardian previously had a professional license denied, suspended or revoked.

It also requires they disclose any information that could decrease their ability to act as a guardian. This information includes whether they have filed for bankruptcy, were found liable for fraud or have had a restraining order against them.

Swanson's office pointed to the conviction of guardian Terri Ann Hauge as to why the tougher law is needed. Hauge was suspended from practicing law in 1995, but because Minnesota law does not require she disclose the suspension, Hauge was appointed to serve as a guardian for dozens of adults.

Hauge stole more than $22,000 from a client, leaving him with $33 in his bank account, prosecutors said. Hauge was removed as his guardian after county social services found the client was living in a dirty apartment with no edible food.

Hauge, later accused in three other cases, was convicted of perjury, felony theft by swindle, felony theft by false representation and felony financial exploitation for financially exploiting vulnerable adults while acting as their guardian.

She is serving a one-year sentence in the Hennepin County Jail.