HB 24-1377 Summary

• Amends the definition of "court-appointed special advocate" (CASA volunteer) to include youth involved in foster youth in transition program cases under Title 19, in addition to existing child welfare and custody cases.

• Allows CASA volunteers to be appointed in foster youth in transition program cases with the youth's consent to support future planning and help access services, supports, and assistance aligned with the youth's interests and program goals.

• Prohibits CASA volunteers in foster youth in transition cases from making best interests recommendations to the court or others and restricts their access to or sharing of confidential youth information without the youth's express consent.

• Takes effect 90 days after the general assembly adjourns, unless a referendum petition is filed, in which case voter approval at the November 2024 general election is required.