Louisiana Senate Bill SCR5

Louisiana 2016 2nd Special Session

• Introduced: 6/15/16

Caption

Requests the Louisiana Supreme Court to fully fund the CASA Assistance Program.

Impact

The resolution serves to reinforce state laws regarding the welfare and rights of children in the foster care system. By requesting full funding for the CASA Assistance Program, SCR5 aims to enhance the quality and availability of advocate services that contribute significantly to the well-being and stability of foster children. The program has been recognized for its effectiveness, with research suggesting that children assigned a CASA volunteer are more likely to find permanent homes and have better educational outcomes.

Summary

SCR5 is a Senate Concurrent Resolution urging the Louisiana Supreme Court to fully fund the Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) Assistance Program. This program is critical for the support of Louisiana's foster care system, which includes over 4,000 children currently in state custody due to abuse or neglect. The resolution highlights the importance of CASA advocates in providing timely and effective representation for these vulnerable children in court hearings, aiming to ensure their placements in safe and permanent homes.

Sentiment

General sentiment surrounding SCR5 appears to be supportive, particularly among advocates for children's welfare and many legislators who recognize the critical role that CASA volunteers play in fostering better outcomes for children in vulnerable situations. There has likely been broad agreement on the necessity of funding, although the exact political dynamics and level of pushback from budgetary constraints remain unspecified.

Contention

While the resolution does not appear to raise significant points of contention, it may face challenges associated with budget allocations and the priorities assigned to child welfare programs. The funding request could be subject to debate in the legislative arena, particularly in discussions around state budgeting, which might prioritize various competing needs. However, the clear focus on child welfare initiatives tends to elicit a more unified support base.