NC H652

Permits possession, sale, and use of consumer fireworks (1.4G devices meeting federal standards) in North Carolina, subject to local ordinance approval and compliance with safety regulations.

Establishes permitting system requiring retailers to be at least 21 years old, maintain $5,000,000 liability insurance, comply with fire safety standards, and prohibits sale to persons under 18 years old.

Restricts consumer fireworks use to persons at least 18 years old, between 10:00 A.M. and 10:00 P.M. (with exceptions on July 4, December 31, and January 1), and prohibits use within 1,500 feet of hospitals, schools, and other sensitive facilities.

Imposes a 5% excise tax on consumer fireworks sales, with 25% of net proceeds directed to the newly established Firefighters' Education Fund and the remainder to the General Fund.

Allows counties and cities to regulate or prohibit consumer fireworks sales and use through local ordinances effective October 1 following adoption, with provisions becoming effective December 1, 2021.