House Bill 270

Chair's Name: David Ralston

Committee: Judiciary Non-Civil

House Sponsor: David Ralston 

HB 270 adds a new code section to govern CASAs (court appointed special advocates). This section sets out how CASAs are appointed, their role in representing the best interest of the child, their responsibilities, as well as notification and access to case information and proceedings. CASAs must maintain confidentiality and when acting in good faith, they have immunity from civil and criminal liability. Should the court find that a CASA is acting contrary to the child�s best interest, the CASA may be removed from the case.

The committee substitute received a Do Pass recommendation from the Judiciary Non-Civil Committee and comes to the House Floor under the Open Rule. 

Chairman Ralston�s opinion of this legislation:

WHAT PROBLEM/OPPORTUNITY DOES THIS LEGISLATION ADDRESS?

To make uniform statewide the appointment, training, role, and responsibilities of a Court Appointed Special Advocate.

WHAT IS THE DRIVING FORCE BEHIND THIS LEGISLATION?

Uniformity among programs.

THIS LEGISLATION:

• Strengthens the Traditional Family Structure

By having community volunteers who advocate for the best interests of the child.

• Reduces the Tax Burden on our Citizens:

By using trained community volunteers as opposed to attorney guardian ad litems to advocate for children.

Senate Changes:

The Senate made it a misdemeanor offense for a CASA to disclose confidential information.