Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

Tennessee House Bill HB0286

Introduced
1/19/23  

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 68, Chapter 104, relative to fireworks.

Impact

The impact of HB 286 is significant as it centralizes the authority over fireworks regulation at the state level. By allowing sales unless specifically prohibited by local laws, the bill reduces local control over fireworks regulations. This shift is noteworthy as it could lead to an increase in fireworks sales across the state, thereby potentially influencing local communities who may have previously chosen to limit or entirely ban the sale of these items due to safety concerns or public sentiment.

Summary

House Bill 286 aims to amend Tennessee Code Annotated concerning the sale and possession of fireworks. This legislation stipulates that individuals can sell fireworks within municipalities or counties unless there is an existing ordinance that prohibits or restricts such actions. Furthermore, it establishes that any fireworks sold or possessed in regions where sales are banned are considered contraband and subject to confiscation. The bill also mandates that the state fire marshal inspect locations before issuing permits for the sale of fireworks, ensuring compliance with safety standards.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 286 appears mixed. Proponents argue that the bill encourages economic activity by expanding opportunities for fireworks sales and creating a more uniform regulatory approach across Tennessee. They believe it supports local businesses by preventing local restrictions from hindering their operations. On the other hand, opponents are concerned that the bill undermines local governance and may pose safety risks to communities that prefer stricter regulations regarding fireworks.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the potential risks associated with increased fireworks sales in areas that have opted for restrictions due to past incidents or noise complaints. The opposition raises questions about the efficacy of state oversight compared to local governments' nuanced understanding of their community's needs and challenges. As such, the debate reflects a broader tension between state control and local authority, with differing viewpoints on public safety, economic benefit, and the role of community governance.

Companion Bills

TN SB0548

Crossfiled AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 68, Chapter 104, relative to fireworks.

Previously Filed As

TN SB0548

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 68, Chapter 104, relative to fireworks.

TN HB2653

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 68, Chapter 104, relative to fireworks.

TN SB2839

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 68, Chapter 104, relative to fireworks.

TN SB0913

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 68, Chapter 104, relative to fireworks.

TN HB1136

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 68, Chapter 104, relative to fireworks.

TN SB1334

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 68, Chapter 104, relative to fireworks.

TN SB1333

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 68, Chapter 104, relative to fireworks.

TN HB1137

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 68-104-211, relative to fireworks.

TN SB0914

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 68-104-211, relative to fireworks.

TN HB1441

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 4; Title 38, Chapter 3; Title 39, Chapter 17; Title 43; Title 50; Title 53; Title 63; Title 67 and Title 68, relative to the "Tennessee Medical Cannabis Act."

Similar Bills

CA SB794

Fireworks: fireworks stewardship program.

AZ SB1284

Fireworks; aerials; licensure; penalties

AZ SB1479

Fireworks; aerials; licensure; penalties

CA SB277

Fireworks: dangerous fireworks: seizure: management.

CA AB1403

Public safety: fireworks: enforcement: funding.

KS SB199

Designating the existing fallen firefighters memorial within the Kansas firefighters museum in Wichita as the official fallen firefighters memorial of the state of Kansas and replacing the Kansas firefighters memorial advisory committee with the Kansas firefighter memorial council; defining the fireworks sales season for seasonal retailers of consumer fireworks, providing for year-round sales by permanent retailers of consumer fireworks, requiring permanent retailers to register with the state fire marshal.

CA AB2740

Fireworks: dangerous fireworks: seizure: management.

HI SB165

Relating To Fireworks