May 26, 2015 4:44 PM

Bearse: Sense and Sincerity

From the Right: Quorum Report’s conservative columnist Eric Bearse argues that conservatives should be careful not to fall for delusional thinking when it comes to making sure foster kids are placed in loving homes

Rep. Scott Sanford, R-McKinney has filed an amendment to Senate Bill 206, the Department of Family and Protective Services Sunset bill, that would allow child welfare agencies to refuse to place children in certain homes based on religious beliefs. It is widely understood that the amendment takes aim at gay couples trying to adopt a child or provide a foster home.

I believe legislators should tread carefully when exercising the awesome power of the state to so fundamentally impact or altar families. I have no doubt the amendment is offered based on a sincere belief. I suspect that belief has less to do with the conscientious and religious objections of child welfare workers as it does a widely held belief among some conservatives that children benefit most when raised in a family with a mother and a father. The amendment is tailored to the former, but the beliefs of child welfare workers are secondary to the health and welfare of children and families. It would seem this comes down to an argument about the health and welfare of children raised by gay couples.

I criticize liberals frequently for social engineering, and for policies steeped in idealism that ignore practical reality. A perfect example is the notion that gun laws will keep firearms out of the hands of criminals. It is an idyllic notion, and a false one. Conservatives should be careful not to fall for the same kind of delusional thinking.

The compete column by Eric Bearse is in the R&D Department.

By Eric Bearse