Jimmy Wayne Praises Passage of California Foster-Care Bill

On Thursday (Feb. 4), Jimmy Wayne made his way through Hot Springs, Ark. on his project 'Meet Me Halfway' walk across the country to raise awareness for the plight of teens who age out of foster home care. Temperatures were barely above 30, and the cold rain was beating down on him all day, but Jimmy was one happy camper who couldn't stop smiling.

The singer started off his morning by finding out that California Assembly members, Republicans and Democrats alike, had joined together to pass Assembly Bill 12 -- the California Fostering Connections to Success Act. The AB 12 proposal taps available federal monies to help finance California's Kin-GAP program and to offer foster care benefits to age 21. AB 12 sailed through the Assembly on a quick 72-0 vote. The bill now moves to the state Senate.

"The vote shows that legislators on both sides of the aisle can reach a consensus on the important issues that affect California," says Assembly member and foster care advocate, Jim Beall, Jr., who introduced the bill. "As always, I enjoyed working with my Republican colleagues and appreciate their support for AB 12. Today, we did what's best for our foster kids."

"I tell you what ... it's time to celebrate, baby!" Jimmy told The Boot after hearing the news. "That is just incredible. Now we know that project 'Meet Me Halfway' is definitely working. Wow ... I was so, so pumped [when I found out]. I can't tell you how much. This is just absolutely incredible."

Jimmy began his 1,700-mile trek on New Year's Day when he left Monroe Harding in Nashville on foot. He expects to arrive in Phoenix, Ariz. at HomeBase Youth Services some time in late March or early April. To track Jimmy on his journey or to make a donation, visit the official 'Meet Me Halfway' website.