HB 386 Summary

• Redesignates "common fireworks" as "consumer fireworks" and creates specific definitions for sparkling devices and novelties under federal law, with city and county ordinances prohibited from conflicting with these classifications.

• Increases State Fire Marshal permit fees for fireworks manufacturing, sale, display, and pyrotechnics: manufacturers and distributors from $2,000 to $3,000; wholesalers from $700 to $1,000; and retailers tiered by product type ranging from $100-$300.

• Authorizes five-year fee adjustments based on Consumer Price Index increases (capped at 2% annually) and establishes a semi-annual transfer of 5% of collected permit fees to the Alabama Firefighters Annuity and Benefit Fund.

• Creates the State Fire Marshal's Fund as a special fund to receive all fees and penalties collected under fireworks and fire safety regulations, to be expended for office operations, administration, enforcement, training, and fire safety programs.

• Becomes effective the first day of the third month following passage and Governor approval.