ANNAPOLIS, Md. -- A number of Boy and Girl Scouts converged at the Statehouse Tuesday to lobby for a bill under consideration that would pay the college tuition for Eagle Scouts and Gold Award Girl Scouts, WBAL-TV 11 News reporter David Collins reported.
Scouts almost outnumbered lobbyists, packing a committee room in support of something better than a badge -- a huge reward for their years of public service, Collins said.
A bill, introduced by Delegate Michael Smigiel Sr., R-District 36, would exempt Maryland Eagle Scouts and Golden Award recipients from paying tuition at a state university.
"It is a reward, but it is also an incentive. Stay in scouting, learn those things that you are learning in scouting and there may a reward to stay in the state of Maryland," said Smigiel, who represents portions of the Eastern Shore.
The exact number of those eligible each year remains unknown, but Scout masters said achieving Eagle Scout status takes years of community service and demonstrated leadership skills.
"Four out of every 100 boys that enter the [Boy Scouts] program make it through the Eagle Scout program," said Gary Nasuta, who is a scout master for Troop 313 in Bel Air.
Girl Scouts must design and complete a Gold Award project that meets a community need. Amanda Cohen dedicated her time and talents to develop a referral brochure to help cancer patients who want to start a family.
"I want to become a high school teacher. It would be great to be able to choose where I wanted to go, maybe have the possibility of having my way paid," Cohen said.
"If we talk about our country wanting to promote volunteerism, and promote the values that we hold so dear, we ought to reward these kids who have worked so hard, and certainly their families have too, I can attest to that," said Barbara Cohen, Amanda's mother.
This proposal is not unprecedented as tuition breaks are offered for children of Maryland National Guard members and college employees, in addition to children in foster care, Collins said.
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