Minnesota Guardians Cannot Consent to Withdrawal of Life Support

Minnesota Guardians cannot order their wards removed from life support.  (Star Tribune)  In an 18-page order, Hennepin County District Judge Jay Quam wrote that although guardians have a strong case to make end-of-life decisions under a state law that grants them power to allow or withhold medical care, it does not specifically allow them to terminate life support. 



Until the state Legislature decides to revisit the issue, only a judge or legally authorized representatives can order life support removed.  In the underlying case, Judge Quam authorized the termination of the ward's life support, but denied the guardian's request for the sole power to make that decision.



UPDATE:  I have posted a copy of the Opinion here.