Bill
LC 3888
Overview: Bill Number: LC 3888, Title: Generally revise court appointed special advocates and guardian ad litem laws, Status: (LC) Draft Died in Process, Introduced: December 15, 2
Overview: Bill Number: LC 3888, Title: Generally revise court appointed special advocates and guardian ad litem laws, Status: (LC) Draft Died in Process, Introduced: December 15, 2024
Purpose and Intent: The primary goal of this bill is to strengthen and expand the use of court-appointed special advocates (CASAs) and guardians ad litem (GALs) in Montana's child welfare and family court systems. CASAs and GALs play a critical role in representing the best interests of vulnerable children and ensuring their needs are met.
Key Provisions:
- Establishes statewide standards and training requirements for CASA and GAL volunteers
- Mandates the appointment of a CASA or GAL in all child abuse, neglect, and dependency cases
- Expands the role of CASAs and GALs to include representation of elderly or incapacitated adults in guardianship proceedings
- Provides funding and resources to support CASA and GAL programs, particularly in underserved areas
- Requires periodic review and reporting on the effectiveness of the CASA and GAL systems
Affected Parties and Impacts:
- Children and vulnerable adults involved in the child welfare, family court, and guardianship systems
- CASA and GAL volunteers and the organizations that recruit, train, and support them
- Judges, attorneys, and other professionals working in the child welfare and family court arenas
Procedural and Timeline Considerations:
This bill was introduced in the Montana Legislature in December 2024 but did not progress further and died in the legislative process.
Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.
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