Our club has been around for about 7 years. The first few years we grew by the classes given, about 20 new members a year. The last few years we have seen a massive influx of members due to the state's beehive distribution program. 

The problem we observe is that, even though well intentioned, some recipients believe the program is "Free beehives to save the bees". They are not made aware of the preparation needed, and responsibilities assumed by a suburban/urban beekeeper. 

If the intention of the program is to reestablish the healthy feral population of honeybees in the state, the beehives should be placed in the hands of those best able to accomplish those goals. 

These would be beekeepers that can establish their ability to overwinter a colony successfully and located in an area where swarms can be released without being a nuisance to the local population. 

At the very minimum the recipient should be able to demonstrate they have taken a class or have the equivalent experience with keeping honey bees. It is not unreasonable to expect a new beekeeper to have prepared by being mentored and taking a class in advance of receiving and setting up new equipment.