Bill > HB1002

This bill establishes comprehensive regulations for consumer and display fireworks in Maryland, creating new definitions and rules for their sale, possession, and use. The bill allows individuals 18 and older to purchase and use consumer fireworks, but with significant restrictions, such as prohibiting their use on public property, within 300 feet of structures, while under the influence of substances, or near livestock facilities. The legislation also provides detailed guidelines for selling consumer fireworks, mandating that they can only be sold from stand-alone permanent structures or temporary structures meeting specific safety and licensing requirements during limited time periods. Additionally, the bill introduces a 16% sales and use tax on consumer fireworks, with the revenue distributed among the 9-1-1 Trust Fund (31%), the Senator William H. Amoss Fire, Rescue, and Ambulance Fund (31%), and the State's General Fund (38%). Importantly, the bill allows individual counties to opt out of these consumer fireworks regulations by adopting local laws prohibiting their sale and use. The new regulations will take effect on October 1, 2025, providing time for implementation and preparation by local jurisdictions and businesses.

Business and Industry

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB1002?ys=2025RS