Am. H.B. No. 226 Summary

• Establishes a fireworks study group to review and make recommendations regarding Ohio's fireworks laws, with first meeting by September 30, 2017 and report due July 1, 2019.

• Extends the moratorium on issuing new fireworks manufacturer and wholesaler licenses from September 15, 2018 to July 1, 2020.

• Eliminates the moratorium on geographic transfer of fireworks manufacturer and wholesaler licenses beginning January 1, 2021, allowing transfers with a minimum two-year period for compliance.

• Imposes a 4% fee on retail sales of 1.4G consumer fireworks effective January 1, 2021, with revenue dedicated to firefighter training programs and fireworks industry enforcement, with fee collection administered by the tax commissioner.

• Expands ability of individuals to obtain and use 1.4G consumer fireworks and 1.3G display fireworks, including providing safety glasses and educational pamphlets to purchasers.