Fireworks Law Signed by Governor Nixon

Gov. Jay Nixon today signed into a law a bill that removes a discrepancy between Missouri and federal laws on the labeling of commercial fireworks, and makes those fireworks that are legal under federal law now legal under Missouri law. Because Senate Bill 835 contains an emergency clause, it takes effect immediately, and brings clarity for communities and civic organizations that plan and sponsor Fourth of July fireworks displays.

“Celebrating America’s birthday with community fireworks displays is a time-honored tradition in towns large and small across Missouri,” Gov. Nixon said. “I greatly appreciate the countless volunteer hours that our civic organizations devote to making these community events successful, and this new law will help ensure that the displays continue to be both safe and enjoyable.” 

In 2009, the U.S. Department of Transportation changed the way it defined and classified fireworks for the purpose of labeling, shipping and possession. Those federal changes included the designations on the amount of explosives contained in the fireworks. Missouri law had referenced the old designated amounts, and had not been updated to reflect the new federal designations.

Gov. Nixon’s signing of Senate Bill 835 enacts the updates to Missouri law to reflect those previous changes in the federal law. The bill was passed by the General Assembly with the support of the Missouri State Fire Marshal.