In 2017, Act 43 allowed Pennsylvania residents to purchase commercial-grade fireworks. Despite laws severely restricting where these can be legally exploded some residents scoff at these laws and thus violate them repeatedly.

To my understanding, the police must directly observe someone lighting the fireworks in order to enforce the law. So, they may know exactly who the culprit is, they may even see the fireworks flying up from the backyard as they approach the house, but if the police don't see them actually igniting a firework there is nothing they can do.

This reality is a frightening fire hazard that threatens to damage and even burn down local properties. The loud, shocking and unexpected explosions lowers the quality of life not just locally, but for miles around as people, pets and wildlife experience sudden and unexpected shock, disturbance and trauma, often late into the night.

We strongly support and urge the passing of House Bill 988 and Senate Bill 757 in order to repeal Act 43 of 2017 and thus return to only “novelty fireworks” being permitted for use by residents of Pennsylvania.