Tax Subsidy for Parents

State Sen. Ed Davis’ proposal (“A Parental Presence Prevents Delinquency,” Opinion, Feb. 25) that public funds be used to subsidize stay-at-home mothers in the interests of reducing juvenile delinquency is based on dubious propositions and is not likely to accomplish this objective.

Davis (R-Santa Clarita) claims that crime is essentially a consequence of the absence of early parental bonds. To remedy this, he would institute a program to financially entice mothers to abandon the workplace and devote themselves full-time to their children.

To thus lay the blame for our youth problems on the 60% of mothers of young children in the labor force is not only a gross distortion, but does a disservice to hard-working women of all socioeconomic levels. Poverty, injustice, racism and urban decay account for far more of our crime problems than do working mothers.

Davis’ misdirected program would thwart the choices of the majority while discriminating against those who insist on their freedom. Instead of his sectarian approach we ought to focus our funding efforts on children regardless of family composition. Through positive tax incentives and a negative tax plan we can support the efforts of diverse families in their struggle to sustain themselves. With a greater public commitment, we can foresee the enhancement of educational, counseling, recreational and cultural opportunities for all children.

MYRON ORLEANS

Anaheim Hills