Gov. DeWine Vetoes Fireworks Bill

Recently, Governor Mike DeWine vetoed SB 113--legislation that would legalize the discharge of all fireworks by nonprofessionals for 24 hours a day on a minimum of 25 separate holidays (actual and observed), with minimal safety precautions in place. The bill would also double the allowable square footage of fireworks stores, without requiring adequate safety measures. 

In his veto message, Gov. DeWine cited the fireworks store tragedy that occurred in Scottown, Ohio, in 1996, in which nine people died. And, he highlighted two studies that have been conducted to help find better ways to build and operate fireworks stores. This bill would not require compliance with the safety measures outlined in these studies.

Additionally, SB 113 would be a dramatic change in Ohio law, making our state one of the least restrictive states regarding fireworks laws. 

For these reasons, Gov. DeWine decided it was in the best interest of Ohio citizens to veto it. 

Some advocates who argued for the legislation said it would provide a legalized framework with limits to replace a law that is not enforced and many people ignore. Communities could have opted out by enacting their own restrictions, up to a total ban. The legislation also sought to bar those who are under the influence of alcohol or drugs from discharging fireworks.

Conversely, opponents of the bill, including health care providers, hospitals, fire safety officials and others, raised safety concerns, saying passage of SB 113 would lead to more injuries. In recent days, the news featured the dangers of fireworks, including the death of Columbus Blue Jackets goaltender Matiss Kivlenieks, 24, after he was struck in the chest by a mortar-style firework that malfunctioned during a party he was attending. 

This legislation has been debated for the last several years. The AMCNO opposed the bill as part of the coalition led by Prevent Blindness Ohio.