AUGUSTA — A bill to allow sales of fireworks that have long been illegal in Maine has won House approval but faces further votes.

The bill, LD 83, approved Wednesday night creates a regulatory framework for the legal sales and use of so-called “consumer fireworks,” which include firecrackers, bottle rockets, morning glories and other explosive products. It does not legalize the types of fireworks that light the sky for the public on the 4th of July.

The bill says sellers as well as buyers of fireworks must be at least 21 years old. It allows municipalities to adopt ordinances to prohibit or restrict the sale or use of consumer fireworks.

Proponents say legalization opens opportunities for businesses, but opponents warn of the dangers of fireworks. The law would not take effect until September.


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