ACR 26 is a nonbinding legislative resolution that designates February 6, 2025, as CASA Appreciation Day in California. The resolution expresses the Legislature’s recognition of Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) volunteers and their role in supporting children in foster care and juvenile court proceedings. It includes findings describing the challenges faced by abused, neglected, or abandoned children and the importance of volunteer advocates in helping judges understand each child’s circumstances and best interests.
The measure highlights California foster care statistics and the work of CASA volunteers, noting the number of volunteers, the number of children served, and the hours contributed in 2023. It frames CASA volunteers as a stabilizing presence for children navigating the child welfare system and as a bridge between the court, school, and community. The resolution also states the Legislature’s aspiration that every child in need be paired with a CASA volunteer to help guide them toward a safe and permanent home.
Impact
ACR 26 does not amend, create, or repeal any statutes and has no direct regulatory or fiscal effect; it is a ceremonial resolution. Its practical impact is to formally recognize CASA volunteers and raise public awareness of foster care and juvenile dependency issues, while directing the Chief Clerk to transmit copies of the resolution for distribution. The measure was chaptered as Resolution Chapter 22, Statutes of 2025.
Sentiment
The sentiment around the resolution appears strongly positive and unanimous. It passed through the Assembly and Senate on consent with no recorded opposition, reflecting broad bipartisan support for honoring CASA volunteers and the children they serve. The bill’s language is appreciative and supportive, emphasizing the value of volunteer advocacy in the child welfare system.
Contention
There is no notable policy contention reflected in the bill text, committee history, or votes. Because the measure is a commemorative resolution rather than substantive legislation, it did not appear to raise disagreements over legal changes, funding, or program administration. The only substantive emphasis is on the importance of CASA’s role in foster care and juvenile court advocacy, which was not disputed in the available record.