We urge Congress and Vice President Gore not to divert money to this movement by passing a bill that would hurt poor children and make it even harder for custodial parents to make ends meet. At first glance, the Fathers Count Act appears to have worthy goals, including helping poor men to be better fathers.
Many women end up in poverty because they are forced to flee abusive husbands or partners.
By earmarking funds only for groups that promote marriage and 'responsible fatherhood,' grants would likely be awarded to right-wing groups. Congress and the vice president should not allow the fathers' rights movement to line their own pockets and advance their agenda with money that should be used to help poor children.