Ask the Expert

E-cigarettes now included in BSA smoking policy

November 3, 2014 // 66 Comments

The Boy Scouts of America has added electronic cigarettes, or e-cigarettes, to the BSA tobacco-use policy, effective immediately.

Debunking myths about wearing camouflage in Scouting

October 20, 2014 // 107 Comments

Is camouflage clothing appropriate for wear during Scouting activities? The BSA expert says there's a simple answer and a gray area.

What’s rank privilege, and why doesn’t the BSA endorse it?

October 10, 2014 // 139 Comments

Rank privilege, the practice of older Scouts eating first or getting the best sleeping spots, isn't endorsed by the Boy Scouts of America.

About the ‘belief in God’ requirement in Scouting

October 3, 2014 // 391 Comments

The BSA asks its members to affirm a belief in God. That doesn't mean the Boy Scouts of America tells its members which religion to practice.

Is there a time limit for completing a merit badge?

September 5, 2014 // 13 Comments

The simple answer: There is no time limit for completing a merit badge except for the Scout's 18th birthday.

Merit badge done, but no blue card?

August 25, 2014 // 63 Comments

It's up to the merit badge counselor, not the Scoutmaster, to determine whether to accept a requirement fulfilled before the blue card was issued.

Your next move when a Scout can’t find a merit badge counselor

August 11, 2014 // 51 Comments

You're bound to be approached by a Scout wanting to earn one for which you aren't qualified to be a merit badge counselor. Your next move is important.

Why does Philmont call its groups ‘crews’ and not ‘patrols’?

August 6, 2014 // 18 Comments

At Philmont Scout Ranch in New Mexico, groups of seven to 12 individuals form crews. But why are they called crews?

Yes, summer months count toward advancement time

July 31, 2014 // 47 Comments

In one troop, the Scoutmaster mandates that summer months don't count toward Boy Scout advancement requirements. Not true.

About that letter Scouts must write for Citizenship in the Nation MB

July 24, 2014 // 56 Comments

Citizenship in the Nation merit badge requirement 8 includes asking Scouts to write a letter to his elected official and show any response received to his counselor.

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