Sub. H.B. 253 - Fireworks Law Revision

• Extends the moratorium on new and transferred fireworks manufacturer and wholesaler licenses from December 31, 2020 to December 31, 2022, while allowing existing licensed operators to relocate geographically under specified conditions.

• Authorizes consumers (18+) to purchase and discharge 1.4G fireworks on private property with owner permission in counties, townships, or municipalities that opt-in via resolution, limited to July 3-5 annually.

• Imposes a 4% fee on retail sales of 1.4G fireworks by licensed manufacturers and wholesalers, with revenue funding firefighter training programs and fireworks enforcement, effective 100+ days after purchase.

• Requires licensed manufacturers and wholesalers to provide safety pamphlets and eyeglasses to 1.4G fireworks purchasers and establishes continuing education and insurance requirements for licensees.

• Creates an Ohio Fire Code Rule Recommendation Committee to review fireworks regulations and make recommendations to the state fire marshal within 100 days, with representation from fire chiefs, pyrotechnics associations, medical professionals, and retail merchants.