I just don’t get it. Why has it taken so long for lawmakers in Idaho to vote for a bill that requires criminal background checks for day cares in their state?

According to Betsy Z. Russell’s story earlier this week, legislators have been striking down the day-care bill for the past five years.

It was back this week in Boise. “The measure would require licensing of all day-care operations that care for four or more unrelated children. It would set minimum standards including criminal background checks, health and fire safety inspections, and child-staff ratios,” Betsy wrote.

Why wouldn’t responsible people vote for something that promotes kids' safety? According to Betsy's story, several members of the House voted against it two years ago because they believe moms should stay at home with kids.

I’m not sure whether to laugh or cry in response. Women have every right to a job as men. (And why don’t they think dads can stay at home, too?)  For those of us who would like to spend more time with our children, it’s not always possible to survive on just one income. With the decline in the economy coupled with rising insurance costs, it seems that parents have no choice but to both work outside the home in order to make ends meet.

 What are your thoughts on this issue?

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