The amount of illegal fireworks being set off in Massachusetts has become a public safety issue, and the $10-$100 fines are insufficient to discourage their use. The use of large "mortars" and other fireworks displays poses a greatly increased risk of fire, especially in densely populated areas. These explosions also pose a risk to pets, who may be distressed by the loud noise and run away or injure themselves in a panic.

This petition seeks to increase the penalty for possession of fireworks in Massachusetts. The current maximum penalty is a fine of $10-$100 and confiscation of the fireworks. This is woefully insufficient, as that number pales in comparison to the amount spent on these massive illegal fireworks displays. The penalty should be great enough to sufficiently discourage use of fireworks. The new recommendation for penalties for possession of fireworks would be a minimum fine of $500 and a maximum of one year in jail. This more closely reflects the current penalties for sale of fireworks in the state.

The increased penalties would serve to further discourage use of fireworks, because the current penalties are not a sufficient deterrent. Please consider supporting this petition if you have been kept awake or otherwise disturbed by the massive increase in fireworks usage this year.