Illinois Boosts Adult Protection in Guardianship

Illinois lawmakers have approved legislation designed to strengthen protections for vulnerable adults involved in guardianship proceedings.

This bill introduces new oversight mechanisms for hospitals and other entities that petition for guardianship over adults with whom they have no personal connection. It mandates that these institutions detail their efforts to contact the individual's nearest relatives before seeking guardianship.

The legislation also encourages private professional guardians to meet with the allegedly disabled adult before their official appointment or as soon as practically possible.

These measures follow a Tribune investigation that revealed how hospitals' use of guardianship sometimes led to patients being placed in substandard nursing homes and estranged family members losing decision-making authority.

Additional safeguards include requiring the naming of an individual rather than an organization on guardianship petitions, certifying staff in guardian roles, and conducting periodic background checks.

Cook County Public Guardian Charles Golbert, a champion of the bill, stated that face-to-face meetings are crucial for assessing an individual's needs and preventing unnecessary or overly restrictive guardianships. He believes the bill represents significant progress in safeguarding the rights of vulnerable adults.