People caught lighting bushfires in NSW could soon face more than two decades in jail under tough new laws proposed by the state government.
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It plans to increase the maximum prison sentence for intentionally causing a fire and being reckless about it from 14 years to 21.
"Deliberately starting a bushfire is a selfish and senseless act that can have catastrophic consequences, potentially wiping out land and homes, and causing injury or death to residents and livestock," Premier Gladys Berejiklian said in a statement on Thursday.
The government is also asking for advice on whether the five-year standard non-parole period for the bushfire offence should be increased and for a review of maximum penalties for a range of other arson offences.
"The reforms will provide a strong deterrent to would-be arsonists while more than 99 per cent of the state is gripped by drought," Emergency Services Minister Troy Grant said.
The changes will be introduced to parliament in mid-November.
AAP
