IL HB3277

Changes court-appointed special advocate (CASA) appointments from discretionary ("may") to mandatory ("shall") in all counties when special advocates are available.

Establishes different rules for counties with populations over 3,000,000, where courts may appoint special advocates but they cannot serve as guardians ad litem, unlike other counties.

Defines "court-appointed special advocate" as a community volunteer aged 21+ who receives training on child abuse, neglect, and juvenile court procedures; is actively supervised by a CASA program; and is sworn in by a circuit court judge.

Outlines specific duties for special advocates including conducting independent assessments, maintaining contact with the minor, submitting written reports, attending hearings, monitoring compliance with court orders, and reviewing all case documents.

Grants special advocates access to all case records upon presentation of an order of appointment, designates information they acquire as confidential, and provides immunity from civil or criminal liability when acting in good faith within the scope of their appointment.