Senate Approves Fireworks Bill

[June 4, 2021]

The Ohio Senate passed legislation this week to legalize the discharge of consumer fireworks on certain holidays, despite the many safety issues. The OOA issued an action alert urging members to contact their state senator to oppose the bill.

SB 113 allows Ohioans to set off fireworks on New Year’s Day, Chinese New Year’s Day, Cinco de Mayo, Memorial Day weekend, Juneteenth, days and weekends surrounding the Fourth of July, Labor Day weekend and New Year’s Eve. The bill also requires retailers to issue glasses and safety pamphlets and deny sales to those under the influence; creates the Ohio Fire Code Rule Committee to make recommendations to the state fire marshal; and allows local governments to restrict or ban fireworks.

OOA Executive Director Emeritus Jon Wills was among those who testified before the Veterans & Public Safety Committee, June 1, to oppose the bill. He cited statistics from the Ohio Department of Health that show 120 preventable fireworks injuries occur annually in Ohio resulting in visits to emergency rooms; 25% of injuries occur those under age 15; and nearly half of the injuries are inflicted on bystanders who are not involved in the discharge.

SB 113 passed with a 26-7 vote and now goes to the Ohio House of Representatives for further debate.