SENATOR NELSON RECEIVES FOUNDER'S AWARD FROM TEXAS CASA

"I am so grateful for this award. More importantly, I appreciate Texas CASA and the positive difference they make in the lives of Texas children. Their work is invaluable to our state," Senator Nelson said.

Texas CASA is the statewide association of 71 local CASA programs that recruit and train volunteers to advocate for children in the child protection system. "Senator Nelson has been a tireless protector for abused and neglected children, and a leader in reforming the child protection system through foster care redesign and other reform efforts. CASA programs across Texas and our thousands of volunteers are grateful for her leadership and steadfast support. This special, first-time award is a well-deserved honor for Senator Jane Nelson," said Texas CASA CEO, Vicki Spriggs.

The Founder's Award was presented to Senator Nelson honoring her leadership to improve the lives of children and youth in the Texas foster care system. The organization specifically cited her efforts to improve foster care, reform protective services and support CASA programs and volunteers throughout her legislative career. Senator Nelson has previously been named "Big Voice for Little Texans" by Texas CASA - earning the honor over the past three legislative sessions.

The Senate budget, authored by Senator Nelson, includes:

• $3.4B for Child Protective Services, an increase of $430M over FY 16-17 levels, including:
• $180M increase to continue pay raises and the 828 additional caseworkers and support staff approved over the interim;
• $116M to strengthen foster care capacity by increasing rates and expanding community-based foster care to four additional regions; and
• $55M to hire 382 new conservatorship caseworkers to reduce caseloads;