Opponents Speak Out Against Fireworks Bill

Fire officials and a foundation that helps burn victims are speaking out against a bill that would legalize consumer grade fireworks in Arizona. Phoenix Fire Department officials say explosions and people being burned and injured could become more frequent if the bill is passed. The Arizona Daily Star reports that Assistant Phoenix Fire Chief Bobby Ruiz says there isn’t a lot of difference in explosive power between basic fireworks and the professional grade.
The bill’s sponsor—Representative Andy Biggs of Gilbert—says “it’s time for Arizona to get rid of the ‘nanny state’ and allow consumers to purchase fireworks as defined in federal code.”