The unanimous vote by the Carroll County Board of Commissioners for the resolution 817-11 is disturbing. It conveys the impression that the benefits of the institution of marriage to children come solely from a heterosexual union.

Every peer reviewed scientific study and professional journal article published by the major and most respected medical, psychiatric and psychological disciplines of this country completely refute that assertion, and a simple computer search would have easily revealed this to them.

We are left trying to understand this stunning oversight.

If the board was honestly unaware of the studies and positions taken by the Academy of Pediatrics, the American Medical Association, the American Psychological Association, the American Psychiatric Association, the Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, the National Association of Social Workers and the American Child Welfare League regarding this issue, then we find ourselves questioning the degree of due diligence undertaken.

Why is the prevailing scientific scholarship disregarded when critical decisions are being made regarding the health and welfare of our children and families?

If signing this resolution is based upon individual conscience and morality, then please have the courage and openness to acknowledge this.

It is understandable that our personal values drive our emotions and influence our thinking, but as commissioners and holders of the public trust, board members must be careful not to allow this to distort established scientific knowledge.

John Adams said that "facts are stubborn things" and they should not be disregarded because they do not conform to one's personal values.

Bob Hollander