HB 644 Summary

• Requires fireworks kept for wholesale and retail sale to be stored in permanent structures only, prohibiting temporary stands.

• Authorizes year-round sale and purchase of fireworks at retail, eliminating previous seasonal restrictions (formerly limited to June 15 - July 5 and December 5 - January 2).

• Reduces penalties for fireworks violations from felony to misdemeanor offenses.

• Brings forward existing statutes regulating fireworks, explosives, and municipal authority over fireworks sales and use for potential amendment.

• Makes minor nonsubstantive change to Section 97-37-27 regarding fireworks explosions near railroad depots and warehouses.