SCR 162 is a nonbinding concurrent resolution that designates May 7, 2026, as CASA Appreciation Day in California. The resolution expresses legislative recognition of the work of Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) volunteers, who are appointed by judges to advocate for children in juvenile dependency and foster care proceedings. It describes the challenges faced by abused, neglected, or abandoned children in the child welfare system and highlights CASA volunteers’ role in helping courts understand each child’s needs and perspective.
The resolution cites statewide foster care data and CASA service figures to underscore the scale of the issue and the contribution of volunteers. It states that approximately 50,000 California children are in foster care and that, in 2025, 7,582 CASA volunteers supported 10,844 foster children through 389,426 hours of service. The measure concludes by formally recognizing the day and directing the Secretary of the Senate to transmit copies of the resolution for distribution.
Impact
SCR 162 does not amend, create, or repeal any statutes and has no direct regulatory or fiscal effect. Its legal impact is limited to a ceremonial legislative designation of a commemorative day, while its practical effect is to publicly honor CASA volunteers and raise awareness of foster care, juvenile court, and child welfare issues in California.
Sentiment
The sentiment around the resolution is strongly positive and supportive. The bill text frames CASA volunteers as essential advocates for vulnerable children and emphasizes their value to the courts, schools, and communities. There is no recorded committee debate or vote opposition in the provided materials, and the measure was ultimately chaptered, suggesting broad legislative approval.
Contention
No notable contention is reflected in the available record. Because the resolution is commemorative and noncontroversial in nature, there are no documented disagreements over policy, funding, or implementation. The only substantive emphasis in the text is on the importance of CASA volunteers and the needs of children in foster care, rather than on any disputed legislative change.