The bill S. 422 seeks to amend the South Carolina Code of Laws to enhance the regulation of pyrotechnics and fireworks, focusing on public safety and compliance. It introduces new provisions that allow the department to issue administrative citations and penalties for violations, applicable to both licensed and unlicensed entities. A structured penalty system is established, with limits based on the number of violations, and the bill provides a mechanism for appealing administrative penalties to the State Board of Pyrotechnic Safety. Additionally, it revises existing laws to clarify licensing requirements, including new permits and the authority to deny licenses based on disciplinary actions or criminal records.

The bill also emphasizes the importance of inspections, stipulating that initial license or permit applications and renewals must be approved only after an inspection by an authorized agent of the board. Licenses and permits are valid for two years, with temporary permits expiring after ninety days or when insurance lapses. The bill reinforces the board's enforcement capabilities, allowing for administrative citations and cease and desist orders for violations, and mandates that all facilities involved in fireworks must comply with board regulations. Licensees are required to report any incidents of fire or explosion involving fireworks within twenty-four hours, thereby aiming to improve safety and regulatory oversight in South Carolina's fireworks industry.

Statutes affected:
03/05/2025: 40-56-90, 40-56-1, 40-56-10, 40-56-20, 40-56-35, 40-56-70, 40-56-80, 40-56-115, 40-56-120, 40-56-130, 40-56-140, 40-56-150, 40-56-200, 40-56-220, 40-56-230, 40-56-240, 40-56-250, 40-56-260
03/06/2025: 40-56-90, 40-56-1, 40-56-10, 40-56-20, 40-56-35, 40-56-70, 40-56-80, 40-56-115, 40-56-120, 40-56-130, 40-56-140, 40-56-150, 40-56-200, 40-56-220, 40-56-230, 40-56-240, 40-56-250, 40-56-260
Latest Version: 40-56-90, 40-56-1, 40-56-10, 40-56-20, 40-56-35, 40-56-70, 40-56-80, 40-56-115, 40-56-120, 40-56-130, 40-56-140, 40-56-150, 40-56-200, 40-56-220, 40-56-230, 40-56-240, 40-56-250, 40-56-260