HARRY HUGHES, Governor

3823

No. 14

(Senate Joint Resolution No. 51)

A Senate Joint Resolution concerning

Firehawk Program

FOR the purpose of recognizing the problem of juvenile
fire-setting by certain juveniles as a serious danger and
one that should be addressed in a positive manner by the
State; endorsing the "firehawk program" that is in existence
in the State as serving an important purpose; and requesting
that a "firehawk program" or a similar type of program be
adopted in some fashion in all political subdivisions in the
State.

WHEREAS, More than half of all fire-setting in this State is
committed by juveniles; and

WHEREAS, The loss of life and property damage that has
occurred due to this problem will continue to occur if the
situation is not effectively addressed; and

WHEREAS, The Governor's Anti-Arson Council mandated the
identification and counsel of juveniles who are impelled to set
fires, and the development of programs for the training of
juvenile counselors; and

WHEREAS, There exists a "firehawk program" in this State
which has served as a positive means of intervention into the
problem of juvenile fire-setting; and

WHEREAS, The firehawk program is a voluntary program
administered and operated by local firefighters; and

WHEREAS, The development and maintenance of professional
counseling is a costly item; and

WHEREAS, The existing firehawk programs have been adopted in
several jurisdictions and have proved to be both effective and
popular means of arson deterrence; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED BY THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF MARYLAND, That the
firehawk program and similar types of programs is are recognized
and endorsed and is hereby recommended to should be adopted by
all State counties, cities, and political subdivisions; and be it
further

RESOLVED, That the firehawk program as operated in the State
is serving an important and worthwhile purpose and ought to be
adopted in some fashion in all political subdivisions in the
State; and be it further