SENATE BILL REPORT

                            SB 5178

                      AS OF MARCH 1, 1993

Brief Description:  Changing fireworks provisions.

SPONSORS: Senators Wojahn, Prentice and Moore

SENATE COMMITTEE ON LABOR & COMMERCE

Staff:  Patrick Woods (786‑7430)

Hearing Dates: March 3, 1993

BACKGROUND:

In 1982 the standard for permissible fireworks in the state of Washington was changed from "safe and sane" to an expanded definition of "common fireworks."  In 1986 counties and cities were given a local option on restricting the use of "common fireworks," provided the local municipalities provide a one-year notice period.

Currently, under state law "common fireworks" may only be sold or displayed from 12 noon on the 28th of June to 12 noon on the 6th of July.

"Common fireworks" include sparklers, fountains, torches, wheels, ground spinners, smoke devices, helicopters, Roman candles, mines, shells.

The following fireworks are prohibited for common use by the general public:  firecrackers, salutes, chasers, skyrockets and missile type rockets.

SUMMARY:

The use and retail sale of "common fireworks" is prohibited in the state of Washington.

Public fireworks displays continue to be authorized.

Appropriation:  none

Revenue:  none

Fiscal Note:  none requested