An outdated state law is meant to prevent injuries, which have significantly decreased, and prevents Illinois from benefiting from an industry worth billions of dollars.
By Grace Hansen | Illinois Policy Institute
For 250 years, we have celebrated our freedom on Independence Day, yet for the past 84 years Illinoisans have been banned from celebrating with fireworks.
Illinois refuses to allow most fireworks, even though 47 states do. (Some cities in those states don’t permit them.)
Passed in 1942, the Illinois Pyrotechnic Act bans the use, transportation and sale of fireworks, allowing only small novelties such as sparklers. Violating the Illinois law is a Class A misdemeanor, with possible fines up to $2,500 and jail time.
The Illinois sales ban directly benefits neighboring states. Indiana brings in an estimated $2.5 million a year in tax revenue from fireworks.
Report continues here.
Editorial note: Black Bull Fireworks has multiple locations just over the border in Wisconsin and many items are currently on sale.