Hunter
04/05/22
A bill awaiting Governor Kim Reynolds’ signature will strip local authorities the power to regulate fireworks sales, and area officials say it’s a recipe for disaster.
A nearly 80-year-ban on fireworks was lifted in 2017, requiring cities to allow their sale but still allowing them to restrict or ban fireworks from being set off. Some communities cracked down on their use after numerous citizen complaints and a rise in injuries, limiting the time frame for residents to set off the explosives or banning displays completely. Other communities limited their sale to certain zoning districts.
A Republican-led amendment to the 2017 bill takes away cities’ rights to limit the sale of fireworks. The Gazette reports that state senator Mike Klimesh, who initiated the proposal, said it was necessary because communities were working around the intent of state lawmakers by limiting where fireworks could be sold. He called spot-zoning a way to defy the spirit of the original law.
Democrats, however, say the amendment is just another example of the Legislature taking away cities’ ability to act for the safety of their residents. Senator Joe Bolkcom said, “This is the ‘burn down every Main Street’ amendment.”
Cedar Rapids Fire Marshall Vance McKinnon III thinks lifting the restrictions will turn into an issue of people illegally setting off fireworks; Iowa City Fire Marshall Brian Greer expects an influx of tent sales, calls to police, and injuries.