Our veterans served this country. They should not lose their rights because they are struggling.

The Department of Veterans Affairs, in coordination with the Justice Department, has announced a plan to initiate court-ordered guardianships for certain veterans, including some who are homeless or at risk of homelessness.

If approved by a state court, a guardian could control where a veteran lives, what medical treatment they receive, and other major life decisions.

Guardianship is one of the most restrictive legal tools available. It can strip individuals of fundamental rights — sometimes indefinitely.

Veterans facing mental health challenges, housing instability, or addiction need support, housing, and voluntary treatment options — not forced control over their lives.

Guardianship should always be a last resort, used only after all less restrictive alternatives have been exhausted and with strong due process protections.

We call on Congress and the Department of Veterans Affairs to halt any expansion of forced guardianship for homeless or vulnerable veterans and instead invest in community-based housing, mental health services, and voluntary care.

Our veterans deserve dignity, autonomy, and real support — not court-ordered control.