PROPOSED MARRIAGE REWARD IS A BAD IDEA

A state legislator has recommended that Missouri financially reward parental responsibility and marriage. The idea is nothing short of ludicrous. There is no way the state should start paying people to behave maturely.

For decades, most people have learned the importance of responsible behavior. Parents, schools and society as a whole have reinforced this notion. People know that when they don't act properly, there are consequences.

Let's not tie everything to money. There is no way people should expect money every time they behave the way they should have been acting all along. If we pay for responsibility, where will it end? Should we tip people who brush their teeth? Should the government kick in a little more for those who eat right and get enough exercise? How about those who get eight hours of sleep each night? Should there be a little something extra in their paycheck?

Forget it. This proposed bill is dumb, and Missouri legislators should concentrate on more pressing matters.