Wanna go to college? Get into trouble

The thinking of some people never ceases to amaze me:

[Maryland] State lawmakers are considering a bill that would grant free college tuition for some juvenile offenders. Supporters say it's a way to encourage troubled youth to get their lives back on track. John Dixon, Deputy Secretary for the MD Department of Juvenile Services says, "The kids the department serves face a lot of obstacles and challenges when they return to the community. This bill will allow kids who are interested in attending public institution to go there tuition free."

Delegate Norm Conway is sponsoring the bill. As an educator for 39 years, he says it's important to help troubled teens make a positive transition. "They're out of their own families in many instances. You're hoping for the best possible transition and incentives that say hey if you're willing to do your part there are some opportunities out there for you."

Under the proposal, committed juveniles under the age of 21 would be eligible for free tuition at any public institution in the state. If the measure is approved, about 450 kids who are in group homes, youth centers, and residential treatment homes would be eligible for the program each year.

Meanwhile, kids who played by the rules, never got into a lick of trouble and got OK grades -- but whose families only earn a modest income -- get squat. What about these kids, lawmakers?

Don't these buffoons think about this stuff ahead of time, and realize the ridiculous message it sends? Why don't these lawmakers seek out philanthropists who can pony up the cash for such a program, instead of making us pay for freebies that aren't deserved?