The bill aims to enhance public safety by regulating the manufacture, sale, and use of fireworks in Minnesota. It amends existing statutes to include new definitions for various types of fireworks, such as "aerial and audible devices," and establishes specific regulations regarding their sale and use. Notably, the bill prohibits the possession or use of these devices on public property and restricts their sale to individuals aged 18 and older, requiring age verification through photographic identification. Additionally, it allows local governments to impose licensing fees for the retail sale of these fireworks, with a maximum fee of $100 for each retail location.

Furthermore, the bill introduces a new revenue allocation structure for taxes collected from the sale of certain fireworks. Starting from sales taxes remitted after June 30, 2025, the commissioner will deposit revenues derived from the sale of aerial and audible devices into the state treasury, allocating 25% to the volunteer fire assistance grant account, another 25% to the fire safety account, and the remainder to the general fund. This change aims to ensure that a portion of the revenue generated from fireworks sales is dedicated to public safety initiatives. The bill also includes provisions for the effective date of these changes, which will take effect on June 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 297A.94, 624.20