Previously prohibited fireworks will be available for sale in Kentucky under the terms of House Bill 33, which is awaiting Gov. Steve Beshear's signature.
Items such as reloadable artillery shells will be available for purchase in the state for the first time. But, while the legislation allows for the sale of the fireworks, it also establishes regulations for the sale.
Rep. Mike Denham said the legislation passed through both the House of Representatives and the Senate with "overwhelming support." In the House, the vote was 92-6 in its favor, while in the Senate the vote was 30-4, he said.
"I voted for it," Denham said. "People are going across state lines now and bringing them back ... so they're in Kentucky anyway."
Besides people travelling out-of-state to purchase the fireworks, Denham said there is also an underground market for the items. By permitting the sale, the legislation is also requiring those who conduct the sale to report in writing where the facilities are locations, including the exact location of where the fireworks will be stored, a copy of the shipping bill and the type of fireworks and pyrotechnic devices stored at the facility. Also a description of how the fireworks will be stored is required.
Denham said safety is always a consideration for fireworks. However, the larger fireworks will not be for sale to anyone under the age of 18, Denham said.
Knowing the location of the fireworks and the means by which they are stored will actually benefit the safety aspect, Denham said, especially regarding first responders who might be called to a scene. When police officers, firefighters or other officials are called to a location, they will know in advance what is on site.
Jake's Fireworks Inc., a company based in western Kentucky, sent out a press release following the passage of the legislation discussing how the new law will boost tax revenue and employment. According to the press release, the state will collect revenue through licensing fees and sales tax. Residents will purchase fireworks locally, resulting in an increase of sales and additional jobs and start-up businesses, according to the release.
The governor has 10 days to sign the bill, Denham said.
"I expect the governor to sign this bill," he said.