The only state senator to vote against expanding Michigan's fireworks law to include more powerful explosives, says he's going to fight to recind the 2011 legislation.

Effort now underway to recind Michigan's fireworks law
Effort now underway to recind Michigan's fireworks law
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The Lansing State Journal is reporting that Senator Glenn Anderson, D-Westland, says he's been inundated with complaints from constituents about the increased noise.  Despite limits to the hours of use, residents report a number of violations.

Anderson admits people will still use the more powerful fireworkes that can be purchased in neighboring states, but he says he's against having them readily available in Michigan.

"They shouldn't be available at corner stands and every party store," he told the newspaper.

The democrat may get some pushback on the effort.  Michigan has been able to charge double the sales tax on the items, claiming half of the money will be used for safety enforcement.

Anderson says the dangers outweigh any financial benefits, though.  He points to a deadly incident that occured this last Fourth of July when a 44-year-old Detroit man died after a skyrocket exploded on his chest.

Other complaints, according to the report, came from the floating debris raining down on communities across the state.  Misfires are also being blamed for eye injuries and lost fingers.

The use of the fireworkers is allowed on 30 days during the year--all on the day of the holiday, the day before it and the day afterward.

State Representative Harold Haugh, D-Roseville, sponsored the  2011 law.  He says while he didn't like all aspects of it, he was prompted to help keep money in Michigan.

Statistics show that in 2012 and 2013, the latest numbers available, the state took in close to $6 and a half million.

Join Jo Anne Paul and Steve Gruber weekdays from 5:30 to 9 AM on 1240 WJIM-AM and the Stations of the Michigan Talk Network.  Join the discussion by calling our hotline at (888) 900-9966!

 

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