Michigan Moves Closer To Expanding Fireworks Sales

LANSING (AP) - Michigan is moving closer to allowing residents to legally buy more powerful, higher-grade fireworks through legislation advancing in the state Legislature.

The state Senate approved a bill Wednesday by a 33-1 vote that would allow an expansion of the fireworks that could be legally bought and sold in Michigan without special permits. The House has passed a similar version of the legislation.

The legislation could change the summer routine for state residents who now drive into border states to buy fireworks that aren't legal in Michigan. Some types of bottle rockets and Roman candles are among the fireworks that would become legal if the measure becomes law.

Michigan's current list of legal fireworks for residents without special permits is limited to sparklers, toy noisemakers and similar devices.

Retailers would have to pay safety fees to sell the higher-grade fireworks.

Democratic Sen. Glenn Anderson of Westland was the only lawmaker voting against the bill Wednesday.

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