New Jersey CASA program faces budget cuts despite volunteer advocacy success

The New Jersey Senate Budget and Appropriations Committee met on April 22, 2025, to discuss the budget allocations for various programs, with a significant focus on the Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) program. The meeting highlighted the impact of a 50% budget reduction for CASA, which has raised concerns among advocates and legislators alike.

During the discussions, it was noted that CASA, which relies heavily on volunteers, provided advocacy for 2,822 children in the previous fiscal year. However, the budget cut has prompted questions about how the remaining funds will be utilized. Legislators sought clarity on whether the budget would cover administrative costs, volunteer training, or other operational expenses, rather than direct support for children in foster care.

The committee reviewed data indicating a decrease in the number of children in foster care in New Jersey, which has fallen by 4,000 since 2016. Despite this reduction, the cost per child for CASA services has increased significantly, from $300 in 2016 to $1,296 in 2024. This rise in cost, coupled with fewer children needing advocacy, has led to scrutiny over the program's funding structure.

While CASA has been praised for its supportive role in the lives of children, some committee members expressed concerns about the program's expansion beyond its statutory mandate. They emphasized the need for a thorough evaluation of CASA's effectiveness, particularly in light of the budget constraints facing the state.

The committee acknowledged the value of CASA's services but indicated that difficult budget decisions must be made. There is hope that some funding could be restored as the budget process continues, but the future of CASA's financial support remains uncertain. The discussions underscored the ongoing challenge of balancing fiscal responsibility with the need to support vulnerable children in the state.