Criminal Law - Crimes of Malicious or Fraudulent Burning - Prohibitions and Penalties

HB 943 prohibits intentionally setting fires (malicious or fraudulent burning) that cause death or serious physical injury to firefighters. It directly affects individuals who commit such acts, making this a specific felony offense under Maryland law. The bill establishes a penalty of up to 10 years in prison for violations, with sentences allowed to run consecutively to other charges related to the same fire-setting act. This amendment to Maryland’s Criminal Law (Article 6, Section 6-112) takes effect October 1, 2025.