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Senate Co-Sponsorship Memoranda
Senate of Pennsylvania
Session of 2019 - 2020
Regular Session
MEMORANDUM
| Posted: | July 31, 2019 04:39 PM |
|---|---|
| From: | Senator Kim L. Ward |
| To: | All Senate members |
| Subject: | Establishing Hours for the Use of Consumer Fireworks |
| I am introducing legislation to put some common sense into the use of consumer fireworks in Pennsylvania. While they can be really enjoyable, fireworks have become a real problem within many communities. Since we allowed most people to use fireworks that are much bigger and far louder than what was permitted prior to Act 43 of 2017, I have heard over and over again from constituents what a disturbance they have become, particularly how late they are being set off. Municipalities can obviously establish their own local ordinances to regulate their use, however I’ve spoken with a few police chiefs from within my district who say enforcement is difficult. They are getting calls throughout the night. Rules now vary from township to township and residents are easily affected by fireworks being set off in neighboring municipalities. The bill I am proposing will prohibit the use of consumer fireworks in Pennsylvania between the hours of 10 P.M. and 8 A.M. unless it is a holiday or the use is allowed otherwise by a municipal permit. My bill will also increase the fine for second violations from $100 to $150 and subsequent violations from $100 to $200 in order to better deter unlawful uses and institute more significant punishment for repeat offenders without criminalizing the use of consumer fireworks, |
Introduced as SB1065