A new law will affect cities and towns across Iowa. On May 8th then Governor Terry Branstad signed a new law to allow the sale and purchase of fireworks in the state.
It’s the first time in nearly 80 years since Iowans could buy fireworks within state lines.
“I think it’s very dangerous for the citizens in the cities in Iowa,” said Council Bluffs Mayor Matt Walsh.
Walsh said the law was passed the last day of the Iowa legislature and it was rushed without much consideration, “We’re in a situation where people will be buying fireworks and the city hasn’t had any time to react to enforce general safety associated with the laws,” he said.
According to the law firework sales can start June 1st through July 8th however cities can amend the law by shortening that timeframe and banning you from shooting fireworks within city limits.
“Just making sure that we are doing it in a safe way for the community as far as where the locations are, and then hopefully shortening the timeframe of them being let off so if you’re not a fireworks fan then it’s not going to ruin your life,” said Council Bluffs Councilwoman Melissa Head who doesn’t have a problem with the law but wants to strike the right balance, while trying to keep people safe, “You don’t want a firework stand set up somewhere in a neighborhood and have an explosion because it wasn’t set up in a safe manner and you injure homes and people.”\
But for firework sellers, this law means big business.
“It’s very exciting to be able to expand into the Iowa market,” said Bellino Fireworks Manager Vince Bellino.
He said they have around 90 locations in Nebraska and will expand by 50-60 locations in the Hawkeye state.
“We’ve been prepared the last couple 2-3 years to do that but it is a help it is an influx to our bottom line,” he said.
Wednesday evening Council Bluffs city council decided to delay a majority of the regulations until its next board meeting in two weeks on June 12th so they have time to decide on some of the issues.
However they did decide on a few things including the person shooting the firework need permission from property owners and have a 75-foot clear zone from the building. Peopel buying fireworks need to be 18 or older, unless you are buying snakes and less dangerous fireworks. You can can shoot the fireworks off July 2nd to July 4th from noon to 11 p.m. and New Year's Eve noon to 12:30 a.m.
