CT HB05575

Defines "an act of fire starting" as conduct causing an explosion or fire, or planning/preparing to cause one, regardless of whether it results in injury or property damage.

Allows courts to order evaluation of children charged with fire-starting delinquency offenses to determine if they would benefit from treatment programs, with evaluation costs paid by parents or guardians unless they are indigent.

Permits courts to suspend delinquency proceedings for up to one year and require participation in fire starting behavior treatment if the child requires treatment and suspension advances justice, with the child placed under juvenile probation officer supervision.

Allows courts to dismiss charges if the child successfully completes the treatment program and complies with all suspension conditions, or to resume proceedings if the child fails to comply.

Excludes children charged with serious juvenile offenses or those previously ordered into evaluation and treatment under this section from the law's provisions.