This 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 fireworks 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 specific guidelines on the fee structure and licensing process.
Furthermore, the bill introduces a new revenue allocation framework for taxes collected from the sale of certain fireworks. Starting from sales taxes remitted after June 30, 2025, a portion of the revenues will be dedicated to public safety initiatives, with 25% allocated to the volunteer fire assistance grant account and another 25% to the fire safety account. The remaining funds will go to the general fund. This change aims to ensure that a portion of the revenue generated from fireworks sales directly supports fire safety and related public safety efforts in the state.
Statutes affected: Introduction: 297A.94, 624.20