Babysitting Without A License

Has neighborly kindness been outlawed in Michigan? A West Michigan woman has been threatened with a $1,000 fine and 90 days in jail... for babysitting her neighbors' children:

Lisa Snyder of Middleville says her neighborhood school bus stop is right in front of her home. It arrives after her neighbors need to be at work, so she watches three of their children for 15-40 minutes until the bus comes.

The Department of Human Services received a complaint that Snyder was operating an illegal child care home. DHS contacted Snyder and told her to get licensed, stop watching her neighbors' kids, or face the consequences.

"It's ridiculous." says Snyder. "We are friends helping friends!" She added that she accepts no money for babysitting.

... A DHS spokesperson would not comment on the specifics of the case but says they have no choice but to comply with state law, which is designed to protect Michigan children.

But, who will protect the children from the road to hell paved with the good intentions of the Department of Human Services?

[Hat Tip to RSM at The Other McCain]