Pay extra for ‘Leave It to Beaver’ foster parents?

It’s difficult to know how seriously to take a bill proposed by Sen. Forrest Knox, R-Altoona. Senate Bill 158, which had a hearing Thursday, would provide extra pay to married foster parents who refrain from extramarital sex, keep a home free of liquor and tobacco, and regularly participate in a church or similar organization. Knox said he hoped to attract families like in the 1950s sitcom “Leave It to Beaver.” The bill raises obvious questions about why certain behaviors were included on the list and not others, and how the state would verify whether parents meet the moral requirements. Also, what evidence is there that these “super foster parents” would be better than other caring Kansans? – Phillip Brownlee

This story was originally published February 12, 2015 at 6:02 PM.