After decades of recessions and budget shortfalls, the country is completely broke and nearing anarchy.  Ultra conservative politicians won most congressional seats in the last election, with a mandate to return the country to more traditional, conservative and secure time.  It was quickly agreed by all (males) that the females in the country were receiving too many entitlements and benefits compared to their economic productivity and social value.  Looking back to Olde Englishe Law for inspiration, the Female Care Act was passed, transferring all accountability and responsibility of any and all females in a residence to the eldest male living there.  Overnight, females were virtually slaves of their male family members with no rights at all outside of those allowed in their own home.