evidence_text: Representative Fox moved to adopt the meeting minutes from December 09, 2025. There being no objection, the motion prevailed with unanimous consent. The Chair laid HB 4696 and HB 4697 before the committee: HB 4696 (Rep. Meerman) A bill to amend 2008 PA 260, entitled "Guardianship assistance act," by amending section 2 (MCL 722.872), as amended by 2023 PA 69. HB 4697 (Rep. Young) A bill to amend 2008 PA 260, entitled "Guardianship assistance act," by amending section 4 (MCL 722.874), as amended by 2023 PA 69. Representative Meerman and Representative Young testified in support of HB 4696 and HB 4697. Questions and discussion followed. Demetrius Starling and Rachael Wineland, representing the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, testified in support of HB 4696 and HB 4697. Questions and discussion followed. Joy Engelsman, representing DA Blodgett, testified in support of HB 4696 and HB 4697. The following person submitted a card in support of HB 4696, but did not wish to speak: Dr. Heather Bomsta, representing Michigan’s Children. The following person submitted a card in support of HB 4697, but did not wish to speak: Bianca Miles, representing Michigan’s Children. The following people submitted a card in support of HB 4696 and HB 4697, but did not wish to speak: Danielle Sirianni, representing the Michigan County Social Services Association. Elizabeth Henderson, representing the Michigan Federation for Children and Families.