By Bob Katzen

The Senate 39-0, approved an amendment that would fund $1,526,000 for Court-Appointed Special Advocates, (CASAs) which are specially trained volunteers who represent the best interests of foster children in legal proceedings.

Supporters said that children with a CASA volunteer have significantly fewer foster care placements, perform better in school and report having a greater sense of hopefulness.

“Children in the commonwealth’s foster system often find themselves in court having decisions made for them without anyone directly arguing on their behalf,” said sponsor Sen. Mike Moore (D-Millbury). “Court-Appointed Special Advocates get to know the children as individuals and can steer the courts toward placing these children in environments where they can thrive. The outcomes of children represented by CASAs speak for themselves.”

(A “Yes” vote is for the $1,526,000.)

Sen. Patricia Jehlen Yes