Substitute House Bill No. 7054 seeks to amend Connecticut's regulations on the sale and use of fireworks by redefining "fireworks" to exclude nonexplosive and nonaerial consumer fireworks, such as flitter sparklers and novelty smoke devices. The bill raises the minimum age for purchasing and selling these fireworks from 16 to 18 years old and allows individuals to sell, purchase, and use these items, provided they do not exceed 100 grams of pyrotechnic mixture per item and adhere to safety regulations. Municipalities are granted the authority to enact ordinances to restrict the sale and use of these fireworks at public events, and the bill outlines a permitting process for supervised fireworks displays, which includes inspections and approvals from local authorities.

The bill also introduces new definitions for specific novelty devices, such as the "Novelty Wire Sparkler" and "Novelty Smoke Device," and establishes safety requirements for their transportation and handling. Violations of the age restriction or municipal ordinances will be classified as class C misdemeanors, while more serious violations related to the sale of fireworks could result in class A misdemeanors or class C felonies if they lead to death or injury. The bill is projected to generate up to $100,000 in annual sales tax revenue and aims to reduce illegal fireworks activity, with an effective date set for October 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 29-356, 29-357
PS Joint Favorable Substitute: 29-356, 29-357
File No. 401: 29-356, 29-357