George E. Brown, Jr.: “I rise in strong support of H.R. 1727, the Arson Prevention Act of 1994. This bill represents a serious and thoughtful…”

“I rise in strong support of H.R. 1727, the Arson Prevention Act of 1994. This bill represents a serious and thoughtful attempt by the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology to reduce the incidence of arson in the United States. The bill authorizes grants for demonstration programs at the State level to improve the training of arson investigators, to form regional arson task forces, to perform research on the causes of arson, and to combat specific causes of arson--such as gang related activity. No area of the United States is immune from the threat of arson. In my district alone, San Bernadino County fire officials reported more than 100 arson related fires last year, and nationally the figure approaches 500,000. Property losses are in the billions. I commend the distinguished Chairman of the Subcommittee on Science, Mr. Boucher, for his work on this legislation. I also commend Mr. Boehlert of New York and Mr. Walker of Pennsylvania for their contributions. This bill has widespread bipartisan support, and I am pleased to recommend this bill to the House.”