sarah's Arty Dreams

Good Spouse Classes?

I was trying to find info on the new “Women’s Health Program” that is fairly new, I found this article. It is a great idea…since the divorce rate is about 49% now. I think!

Texas passes bill on good-spouse classes
AUSTIN, Texas, May 18 (UPI) -- The Texas House Friday approved a bill doubling marriage fees to $60 unless couples take state-sponsored classes on how to be good spouses.

The bill unanimously passed the Senate last week and cleared the House 84-56, reported the Houston Chronicle.

The bill, which now heads to the governor's desk, specifies that those couples wishing to avoid the fee hike can take an eight-hour class on how to succeed as a spouse.

The state-sanctioned classes teach conflict management, communication skills and keys to a good marriage. The bill does not require couples be taught how to be good parents or how to manage money.

Couples taking the classes will get free marriage licenses, but it is not clear how much the classes will cost, the Chronicle said.

Back to the “Health Program” The services it provides;

• Benefits of the Women’s Health Program include:
• Comprehensive health history.
• Gynecological exam and Pap smear.
• Screening for diabetes, sexually transmitted diseases, high blood pressure, and breast and cervical cancers.
• Assessment of health risk factors, such as smoking, obesity and exercise.
• Counseling and education on birth control methods, including the health benefits of abstinence.
• Birth control, except emergency contraception.

I guess Governor Rick Perry is keeping his promise. Quoted from his web site,

We all know the familiar saying, If you don't take care of yourself, then you can't take care of others.

We know it's true: our health should be our top priority. Yet as women trying to keep up in a high-speed, high-expectation society, we continually put other things before our own well-being - family members, stressful jobs, household chores, other commitments.

Helping women get and stay healthy is a key priority for the Governor's Commission for Women. From breast cancer to heart disease to sedentary lifestyle, the Commission is working to help provide Texas women with the information and tools they need to fight such health predators, stay strong and know when to put themselves first.

It is so true women; we need to take care of ourselves!!! We have to be the only number one in our life, not our man or children or job, or whatever. I think I have a new goal for myself now.
:heart:healthy
Sarah