Bill to legalize fireworks goes to Gov. Andrew Cuomo

ALBANY — Gov. Andrew Cuomo has until today to act on a bill to legalize the sale of certain small fireworks in New York state, and firefighters and other groups want him to veto it.

The bill would permit the sale of “novelty” fireworks such as sparklers and snaps to anyone 18 and older.

New York is one of only four states that completely ban the sale of any fireworks. New Jersey, Massachusetts and Delaware are the others.

Five states permit the sale only of novelty fireworks.

Advocacy groups such as the New York Public Interest Research Group have criticized the bill, saying fireworks cause serious harm to children.

“Emergency rooms get jammed, particularly around July 4 time, and it will be a huge headache for local firefighters and police departments who will have to enforce what will be a very confusing law,” said Russ Haven, legislative counsel for NYPIRG.

Cuomo has not indicated whether he will sign the bill.

The Fireman’s Association of the State of New York, which represents more than 120,000 volunteer firefighters and EMS workers, said the measure would increase the risk of fires and injuries to children and teenagers.

Out of the 8,600 injuries that were caused by fireworks in the country in 2010, 1,200 of them came from the use of sparklers, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.

“I’ve seen what fireworks can do to both buildings and to people,” said David Jacobowitz, president of the Fireman’s Association. “It’s an unneeded thing.”

The bill is sponsored by Sen. Michael Nozzolio, R-Fayette, Seneca County, and Assemblyman Joseph Morelle, D-Irondequoit.

Morelle said the types of fireworks that would be legalized are already used in the state illegally.

“I’d much rather have them sold in New York and acknowledge what we already all know to be true,” he said, adding that it’s up to parents to ensure safety.

“I wouldn’t let my 5-year-old use a steak knife, but I also wouldn’t make it illegal to own a steak knife,” Morelle said.

Supporters also said the measure would have a financial benefit to the state and for businesses.