Lawmakers Misfire On Fireworks Bill In Maine

FIREWORKS

The new state statute on the sale, possession and use of fireworks in the state of Maine has caused a great deal of confusion throughout the state. Our lawmakers created a nightmare for everyone involved with fireworks. This was definitely not their finest hour. Lawmakers did not take a very close look at the ramifications of what was contained within this statute. Both of Lisbon’s representatives Garrett Mason and Dale Crafts voted in favor of this new statute.


I was born and raised in Maine and except for my military time I have lived my entire life in Maine. I use to do chores to earn money for “Snappers”. These are small balls that explode when they hit the ground. These were classified as kid toys the same as “caps” for cap pistols. Every 4th of July my parents would purchase “Sparklers” and light them for us. But with this new law these are now either illegal or considered “consumer fireworks”. Snappers are totally illegal in the state and sparklers can only be purchased through an authorized fireworks store. Kids can no longer utilize sparklers or snappers. The only personnel authorized to use fireworks must be 21 years of age.

My grandson loves snappers and when he went to purchase them at a local store there was a sign stating individuals who purchase and use snappers had to be 21 years old. My grandson is devastated and I can totally agree with him. I have never heard of anyone being hurt, injured or killed from snappers. I have been emailing Chief Brooks and he provided the information in this article and I want to thank him for educating me about this new statue.


Now to add to the confusion even more the State of Maine Attorney General has authorized smaller retailers to sell sparklers because it was an unintentional restriction set by the legislature and that is supposed to be corrected when the next legislature convenes. This includes “Morning Glories”. However, snappers are still illegal and the State Fire Marshall is tracking down all the distributors to get them to stop providing snappers.


The town council is going to be considering a Fireworks Ordinance for the town. I believe this to be a total waste of time and money at this time. In my opinion, and I love fireworks and believe with proper supervision they are a good thing, the town council should ban the sale, possession and use of fireworks in Lisbon at this time. The reason for this is two-fold (1) the most important reason is because the state has NOT provided a clean law and (2) and just as important is there is absolutely no way to enforce any ordinance. By a clean law, I mean there are numerous bugs such as snappers, sparklers and Morning Glories that need to be clarified prior to making any ordinance. I find it outrageous for lawmakers to enact a law which has so many situations left unanswered and unenforceable.


It is apparent both Garrett Mason and Dale Crafts were not looking out for the people of Maine. We do not need these two individuals in Augusta making these kinds of decisions for us.


VOTE THEM OUT IN NOVEMBER!!!!!!!!

Larry Fillmore
Concerned Citizen