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Primary Sponsor

Last Action

Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate2025-03-10

Vote Breakdown

No floor votes recorded.

Plain Language Summary

This bill legalizes the sale and use of certain consumer fireworks in North Carolina starting January 1, 2026. It establishes a permitting system for fireworks retailers, sets safety requirements and restrictions on where and when fireworks can be used, and imposes a 5% excise tax on consumer fireworks sales, with 25% of proceeds funding firefighter education and training.

Arguments in Favor

• •Supporters argue this bill allows North Carolinians to celebrate holidays like Independence Day with legal consumer fireworks, generating tax revenue for firefighter education and training.
• •They contend that a regulated permitting system with safety requirements (fire extinguishers, employee training, setback distances from hazardous facilities) creates a safer framework than the current prohibition, and that reasonable use restrictions (daytime hours, age limits, distance from schools and hospitals) protect public safety while preserving personal freedom.

Arguments Against

• •Opponents may worry that legalizing fireworks increases risks of accidental injuries, fires, and property damage despite safety regulations, particularly during high-use periods like July 4th.
• •They may also be concerned that enforcement of restrictions on when and where fireworks are used will be difficult, and that the $5,000 permit fee and regulatory burden could limit legitimate businesses while the 5% excise tax increases consumer costs.