HONOLULU (KHON2) — A proposal to once again legalize certain small fireworks is moving forward at the Honolulu City Council.
Since 2010, sparklers and fountains have been a thing of the past on Oahu. On Big Island, Maui, and Kauai, counties have allowed the purchase of these smaller fireworks without a permit.
Committee members passed Bill 22, which would legalize ground fireworks like sparklers and fountains.
The bill would allow consumers to buy ground fireworks without a permit and instead would require sellers to have one.
Those in support said it would help curb the black market and illegal aerials, but the fire department said it would only result in more harm.
“We all know the increasing threat more fireworks will bring in relation to fires, the smoke produced would impact our elderly, youth and vulnerable people and those with asthma,” said J.C. Bisch, HFD Batallion Chief.
Next, the bill will need a public hearing, which will be scheduled for a later date.