A metro Atlanta city is split over proposed legislation that would send parents to jail if their kids break the law.
The proposal, drafted by South Fulton Councilwoman Helen Willis, could jail parents for up to 30 days, in addition to a $100 fine, if they fail to get a handle on their unruly, minor children, local station WSB-TV reported.
“You brought the child into the world, you should be responsible for your child,” Willis told the news station.
The idea has gotten some pushback, however. Local activist Marcus Coleman said he disagrees with the councilwoman’s strategy of using the city’s court system to reprimand parents. Community organizations should, instead, be able to aid struggling parents.
A draft of the controversial ordinance hasn’t been introduced just yet. Residents will have a chance to offer their thoughts on the proposal at an upcoming town hall meeting.
