Tennessee House Bill HB1136

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/31/23
• Refer: 3/14/23
• Refer: 3/21/23

Caption

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

Impact

If enacted, HB1136 would impact state laws governing the sale and use of fireworks, thereby affecting local municipalities' regulatory frameworks. By allowing for a longer usage period, the bill aims to ensure that celebratory events involving fireworks can occur over a more extended period, which may enhance community participation in these events. However, it is essential to consider that extended periods of fireworks usage could also raise concerns regarding safety and noise pollution for communities, prompting potential discussions at the local government level regarding how to enforce these changes.

Summary

House Bill 1136 aims to amend the Tennessee Code Annotated, specifically Title 68, Chapter 104, which relates to the regulation of fireworks. The primary substantive change proposed by the bill is the extension of the permissible period for fireworks usage from two days to three days. This amendment signifies an effort to broaden the window of time during which residents may legally discharge fireworks, likely responding to community preferences for celebrations that involve fireworks, such as holidays or local festivals.

Contention

There is likely to be contention surrounding this legislative change, particularly among local governments who may need to amend their own rules and regulations to comply with the state's new fireworks usage guidelines. Some legislators and community stakeholders may argue that increasing the usage period may lead to increased safety hazards and disturbances, while proponents of the bill may argue that it grants citizens greater freedom to celebrate significant occasions.