Parent Licencing?

Question

What would you all think of an optional state level governing factor for Parent Licencing. Basically the system would work like so. Couples who would like to have children would file paperwork with a new division of DSHS. They would under go psychological examination, this to reduce the number of abused and neglected children. If sucessfully passing they would recieve a cash bonus of 15k from the state for undergoing the classes and recieve better home loan options to meet financial and living situation goals. This all would be a persons option, not a requirement. These are some simple explinations of the program. I have more detailed plans but not enough time. Also, since it is an option it would not be a violation of civil liberties. And at that, the program design is to reduce the number of unwanted births, abuse and neglect cases, and some mothers and fathers using the system as a way to make money. Give me some imput. I t sounds crazy but I think it may work.

Let me fill in some much needed details. The 15k bonus would come from tax dollars. Now lets remember that this is on a state level. No federal under any circumstance. The program would include mandatory home inspections done quarterly for the first three years after having a new child. Not to be a violation of civil liberties this program is optional. With in home evals, state worrkers can determine the level of care being given. At the same time the 15k bonus would come in checks delivered quarterly over a two year period. It would have to be invested or used to the childs benefit, such as a down payment on a new home or a college education. The fact of the matter is the program is to encourage people to be responsible parents. As on of the answers said, these parents are raising our future leaders.

Answer 1

I have a hunch it would work as well as the testing done to get a driver's license does. I would not agree with a cash bonus. Sure way to have the system abused, but classes that would qualify you for a one-time assistance in medical costs for the birth might.

Answer 2

Mandatory parenting classes would be a better option. The states are already back-logged with abuse cases. They don't have the time to get to all of the cases in time. They also do not have the funds to pay for more case workers, so where would the extra $15k per couple come from? More taxes?

Answer 3

I think it's a good idea. However it may not reduce the number of neglected and abused children, but increase them instead. Just like foster parents who take in the children for the money, what's to stop parents from doing this?

But I do think something needs to be done. I wish it were possible to undergo some kind of testing or requirements in order to have children. If I have to hear one more dumb question about "omg i had anal sex when i was totally drunk could i be pregnant?" I might jump off of a bridge. These people actually are raising our future leaders. Sad.

Answer 4

Altough it sounds like it is for the best interest of the child, I am not one for allowing the governmet to rule if they think a couple should have a child or not. What if there is a single parent wanting to have a child? Will they be deemed as unfit because there arent two parents for the child? I wouldn't be okay with giving government the option to say if I or anyone is able to have a child or not. If God blessed someone with a baby, then so be it.

Answer 5

The thing is what would stop the government from gradually making this law? It would start as an option and over the years would become law. I've talked to people that were around when drivers licenses were an option that you just went and paid 50 cents and got one. No test and you weren't asked anything it was just an ID card. Now they are required and in our state if your caught driving without it (even if you just left it at home) they can confiscate your car.

Answer 6

The flaw to this scenario is that you would have alot of people who are not interested in having children undergoing the process for the sake of the money, then some a-hole that is neglectful of their children is using tax dollars to supplement their income. Then when they realize that kids cost more than the 15k they got, the kid gets dumped on my doorstep. Its not hard to pass a psychological evaluation.

Answer 7

Frankly, it all sounds nice, but few people would take their 15k and spend/invest it wisely. Plus, who trains them and what do they train people for? They would need parenting lessons, counseling, poss. drug alcohol treatment, poss. anger management. Who will pay for these services? I think we should make people on welfare currently be more accountable........Perhaps, if we could save the 15k and use it to actually help people currently in these programs through job, family, financial planning, etc. then we might be able to see if these services worked in getting people off welfare. I think the classes should be available, but the $ is a big step for taxpayers with no guarantee of success.

Answer 8

I think in some form that would be beneficial to have, but I honestly don't think that they could ever put something like that into place. I see where your coming from though, and I think in some cases it would be great!

Answer 9

ok so forced abortions for all then? Puh-lease. Seriously flawed thought process. Would it be you that would spear head this micro management?

Answer 10

I'm down for that. Stupid people shouldn't be allowed to breed! The gene pool needs more chlorine!