Poll: Legalizing Fireworks Statewide In Wyoming On July 4

A bill to allow fireworks across Wyoming between noon and midnight on July 4 has been filed for the upcoming session of the Wyoming Legislature.

You can read House Bill 57 here.

The bill would not overrule fireworks bans that are part of an open fire ban imposed due to fire concerns.

The bill is sponsored by Rep. Steve Harshman [R-Natrona County].

Arguments For And Against The Bill

Supporters, such as Rep. Daniel Singh, a Laramie County Republican, argue current laws against fireworks in some cities and counties hurt businessess that sell fireworks and burden law enforcement officers who are tasked with trying to enforce a law that is widely violated and largely unenforceable. Singh also argues that July 4 fireworks is a long-standing patriotic tradition.

There are also folks who go a bit further than what the bill is proposing and say fireworks should not be regulated at all. They say it's just another example of the government trying to take away personal freedom for something that isn't really a big problem in the first place

But Laramie County Commissioner Linda Heath, who is also a Republican, calls the bill "feel good" legislation that will create challenges for law enforcement. She says the law could not be enforced unless you can stop people from buying fireworks in or out of state. That obviously is not going to happen anytime soon

Many fireworks opponents also consider the items a terrible fire hazard, and a tradition that can needlessly upset combat veterans and others and frighten pets.

So what do you think? Do you support the bill or oppose it? Or maybe you think it doesn't go far enough and that fireworks shouldn't be regulated at all?

Take our poll and give us your opinion!