It is not uncommon for units to conduct advancement events. Unfortunately, there have been some problems regarding the quality of instruction in the past when profit becomes a factor. Upon serious review and discussion with the National Office advancement department, the Santa Clara County Council Advancement Committee implemented the following policy relating to the sponsoring of Merit Badge Midways effective January 1, 2002.

If your unit wishes to conduct an event of this type, which collects a fee from participants and includes Scouts from other units, you'll need to comply with the policy requirements or the counselors at the event will be unauthorized to sign-off blue cards. Please encourage your Scouts to only attend events which comply with this policy.