Federal Veterans Guardianship Initiative Draws Scrutiny

In our last issue, we shared news of a federal initiative allowing the Department of Justice and the Department of Veterans Affairs to initiate guardianship proceedings for veterans lacking decision-making capacity and support, including many experiencing homelessness.

As more details emerge, concerns are growing about how this would work in practice and who ultimately benefits. Critics have raised concerns that the initiative could expand the institutionalization of vulnerable veterans through guardianship rather than investing in the housing, mental health care, and person-centered support systems many veterans need.

We spoke with Charles P. Golbert, head of the Cook County Public Guardian's Office, who offered his perspective on what this could mean on the ground:

A Break From How Guardianship Typically Works

“Guardianship has always been a uniquely state function,” Golbert noted, raising concerns about federal involvement in a process traditionally handled at the local level.

Limited Capacity and Expertise to Carry It Out

Guardianship requires specialized legal and social service expertise. Golbert noted that those tasked with initiating these cases may lack that background, while existing systems are already stretched thin.

A Mismatch Between the Plan and the Population

While guardianship can play an important role in supporting vulnerable individuals, Golbert raised concerns about using it as a broad response to homelessness and mental health challenges. He questioned “how much… a guardian is really able to do,” noting that in some cases it can become “a big intrusion on their civil rights… without the benefit guardianship is meant to provide.” With guardianship programs already under heavy strain, critics worry the initiative could institutionalize vulnerable veterans without the person-centered support guardianship is intended to provide.