Bill

HB 3639

85(R) - 2017
House County Affairs
Read Bill & Check Bill Status
House County Affairs
County Government
Safety

Vote Recommendation

No
  • Negative
  • Neutral
  • Neutral
  • Negative
  • Negative

Author(s)

Barbara Gervin-Hawkins

Bill Caption

Relating to regulation of fireworks stands in certain counties; creating criminal offenses.

Fiscal Notes

No fiscal implication to the State is anticipated.

Bill Analysis

HB 3639 is a local bill bracketed to the author's district. This bill would prohibit a firework stand from being located within 2,500 feet of the boundary of a municipality or within 500 feet of residential property. This bill would also establish a complaint and investigation process for complaints against retail fireworks permit holders. Failure to adhere to the provisions of HB 3639 would be a Class C misdemeanor.

Vote Recommendation Notes

Although local in nature, this bill infringes on the principles of limited government, the free market, and individual liberty by increasing regulations on the sale of fireworks, establishing a complaint process, and creating a criminal offense. Particularly given that fireworks are already heavily regulated under law and that it is not the role of the state to micromanage county fireworks sales, we oppose HB 3639.