Independence Day means residents of 47 states will celebrate their freedom by choosing to set off fireworks. Not in Illinois.
Independence Day is a time to celebrate sacrifices by those who died to secure freedoms we enjoy today. It calls for backyard barbecues and a booming night sky.
But not in Illinoisans’ backyards. It is one of three states banning some or all fireworks. The other 47 states, or nearly 94% of country, celebrate freedom with the flair of a flare.
Since 1942, the Illinois’ Pyrotechnic Use Act prohibits residents from buying and using fireworks other than novelty fireworks such as sparklers and smoke bombs. Violating the law is a class A misdemeanor, with fines ranging from $75 to $2,500.
Rockford police will fine residents $750 if they’re found partaking in pyrotechnics. Elgin just raised its penalty for those caught lighting off fireworks three times within a year from $750 to $1,500.
Fireworks ignite criticism because of safety concerns. However, firework consumption nationwide hit an all-time high in 2022 with more than 461 million pounds, up by more than 57 million pounds since 2020. But injuries fell by more than 5,000 during that time and have remained pretty steady as use has grown over 20 years.
More here.
Related: “Despite a statewide ban, Illinoisans continue to go over the border to buy fireworks”
I didn’t know about this Statewide fireworks ban until The Observer commented. I for one am happy about it! Fireworks in the hands of novices are dangerous and a fire hazard. In addition, I don’t have to hear the boomers close to my house and barn. In past years, the arial bombs actually shook my house. Too much! If you want to see fireworks, support your local jurisdictions and go watch the big displays. They are much better anyway.
The original act was passed in 1942 and signed into law by a republican governor.