As a military veteran, I have witnessed firsthand the debilitating effects of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) on my fellow servicemen and women. The loud noises from domestic fireworks can trigger traumatic memories and cause severe distress. Moreover, as a pet owner like many others nationwide, I've seen how our beloved animals are terrified by these sounds. Our elderly citizens living alone also experience trauma due to the excessive noise from fireworks.

Fireworks are not just an issue during holidays; they have become a year-round concern affecting millions of people and pets across the country. According to a study published in The Journal of Traumatic Stress (2011), loud noises such as those produced by fireworks can exacerbate symptoms in individuals with PTSD.

Furthermore, according to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), loud noises can cause fear and anxiety in pets leading to destructive behavior or even escape attempts. For our senior citizens living alone who may already be dealing with feelings of isolation or anxiety, these sudden loud noises can be extremely distressing.

We must consider how our actions affect those around us - our veterans who bravely served us; our pets who provide us unconditional love; our elderly neighbors who deserve peace in their twilight years. Therefore we urge lawmakers to enact legislation prohibiting the use of sound in domestic fireworks except for licensed public displays where appropriate measures are taken into account for noise control.

Please sign this petition if you believe that everyone deserves peace within their own homes without being subjected to unnecessary stress caused by domestic fireworks.