Bill > SB334

This bill creates a new criminal offense specifically targeting individuals who commit arson or other malicious burning crimes that result in the death or serious physical injury of a firefighter. The bill defines a "crime of malicious or fraudulent burning" as a violation of certain existing Maryland criminal code sections related to burning property, and clarifies that "serious physical injury" has the meaning established in another section of the criminal code. Under this proposed legislation, anyone who commits such a crime and causes harm or death to a firefighter would be guilty of a felony punishable by up to 10 years in prison. Importantly, the sentence for this specific offense can be served separately from, and either consecutively or concurrently with, any other sentences related to the underlying arson or burning crime. The bill is set to take effect on October 1, 2025, providing a clear timeline for implementation of this new criminal provision designed to protect firefighters who risk their lives responding to dangerous fire-related emergencies.

Justice

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/SB0334?ys=2025RS