The illegal possession and detonation of fireworks in New York State by unlicensed individuals must be brought under control and enforced by the 2021 "fireworks season". This is a public health and safety issue, and consistently turning a blind-eye to this illegal practice by law enforcement must cease immediately. As NYS citizens, no matter how remotely we may reside, it is impossible not to be subject to the noise pollution created by these explosive devices. Moreover, the havoc they wreak on family pets, persons living with PTSD and disabilities, the elderly, and wildlife, are consequences that must be taken seriously by those charged with enacting and enforcing the law. 

Fireworks are illegal to buy and detonate in all of New York state unless you belong to an organization or association and have the proper permits. What is considered illegal is anything that shoots up in the air or sends out a projectile, such as: firecrackers, bottle rockets, roman candles, spinners, and other aerial fireworks. Some counties outside of New York City allow individuals to use sparkling devices that are ground-based or handheld, but they remain illegal in most downstate locales including Westchester, Nassau, and Suffolk Counties. Yet, every year beginning in late May to early June, the intermittent bangs and crackles of these illegal fireworks progressively begin to populate the air until they become a nightly nuisance. It all comes to a resounding crescendo on July 4th, with absolutely no consequences to the individuals breaking these laws. 

Possession of fireworks is a misdemeanor violation carrying a maximum fine of $250, and possession of fireworks valued at fifty dollars or more upgrades the charge to a class B misdemeanor with a maximum fine of $500; one may also be charged with disorderly conduct and reckless endangerment. However, the laws pertaining to these dangerous, explosive devices are all but ignored by law enforcement, as is evidenced by thousands of citizen complaints that are rarely, if ever, followed up on. It is extraordinarily easy to locate and identify the offenders as they expose themselves and their whereabouts through the sheer nature of their illegal activity. Those of us who fear for the well being of our family, friends, pets and wildlife, and report these illegal activities are treated with flippancy rather than concerned citizens simply trying to live our lives in lawful peace. 

We, the undersigned, ask that the law, as written, is enforced in order to protect the health and safety of the residents and animals of NYS. We encourage the specialized orchestration and detonation of fireworks by professionals and entrust them to do their jobs in sanctioned locations for the enjoyment of anyone who wishes to partake.