An Iowa Senate committee is scheduled to consider a bill next week that will ensure that fireworks may be set off anywhere in the state on Independence Day.
The legislation would also forbid local rules restricting where retailers may sell fireworks. Companies that sell fireworks say that kind of statewide uniformity is essential. Jim Henter of the Iowa Retail Federation suggests there’s a hodge-podge of regulations now.
Cities and counties as well as fire fighters and law enforcement groups oppose the bill, citing safety concerns. Robert Palmer of the Iowa League of Cities says local ordinances on fireworks should be maintained.
A senate subcommittee advanced the bill, making it eligible for debate in the Senate Commerce Committee next week.
