Minnesota fireworks bill rattles Capitol

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Apr 5, 2012 at 3:05 pm

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) - Minnesota holiday revelers hungry for a bigger bang and brighter flash could buy and set off a wider array of consumer fireworks if a bill moving through the Legislature stays on course.

The House planned to vote as early as Tuesday on legislation that would legalize more at-home fireworks. It would allow aerial fireworks and those with more oomph than the sparklers, glow worms and low-power noisemakers currently permitted.

Backers argue that people are using them anyway, buying them in border states like Wisconsin. Opponents, including firefighters and emergency room doctors, warn that the high-power fireworks are too dangerous and argue that local governments should be empowered to keep them out.

Companion legislation awaits Senate action. Democratic Gov. Mark Dayton hasn't taken a public position on the bill.

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