GENERAL ASSEMBLY APPROVES STORM BILL TO STRENGTHEN AND STREAMLINE CASA PROGRAM OPERATIONS
Legislation supporting court-appointed special advocate programs heads to governor’s desk
FRANKFORT, Ky. (March 26, 2026) — Legislation sponsored by Sen. Brandon Storm, R-London, to update and streamline Kentucky’s Court-Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) program requirements has cleared the General Assembly and now heads to the governor’s desk for final consideration.
Senate Bill (SB) 17 makes several targeted updates to statutes governing CASA programs, which recruit and train volunteers to advocate for children involved in abuse, neglect, and dependency cases before Kentucky courts.
The legislation reduces the minimum number of board members required for local CASA programs from 15 to 12, helping communities maintain effective local leadership while easing administrative hurdles that can make it difficult for smaller programs to sustain volunteer boards.
SB 17 also updates statutory language to reference the Department for Community Based Services (DCBS) when outlining restrictions on employees who may not serve as CASA volunteers or staff. The bill removes outdated references to national CASA standards while maintaining oversight through Kentucky law and the Kentucky CASA Network.
Storm said the measure is designed to help CASA programs remain focused on their core mission of advocating for vulnerable children navigating the court system.
“CASA volunteers play a vital role in our courts by helping ensure the best interests of vulnerable children are represented throughout the legal process. Senate Bill 17 makes practical updates that help local programs continue recruiting volunteers and maintaining strong leadership so they can stay focused on advocating for children who need support the most.”
The legislation also includes technical and conforming updates to related child welfare statutes to ensure consistency across Kentucky law.
Rep. Stephanie Dietz, R-Edgewood, who carried the bill in the House of Representatives, said:
“This bill is an important step in continuing to provide children living through unimaginable circumstances a voice. By formally recognizing the Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) Network in statute, streamlining local boards to meet community needs, and updating program standards under state oversight, we strengthen CASA’s ability to protect children and ensure their safety.” Rep. Stephanie Dietz (R-Covington)
SB 17 received bipartisan support in both chambers and now awaits the governor’s signature.
Learn more about bills, committees, and other important updates on the 2026 Regular Session at www.kylegislature.gov.