A new bill introduced in the New Jersey state Legislature would prohibit the sale, possession, and use of certain fireworks in the state by eliminating a recent exception to the law that prohibits the sale, possession, or use of fireworks.

Under current law, certain non-exploding, non-aerial fireworks that are included in the definition of sparkling devices and novelties are authorized for possession by persons at least 16 years old.

Sparkling devices and novelties refer to: sparklers, snakes, and glow worms; smoke devices; trick, wood sticks or wire sparklers, hand held or ground based sparkling devices which are non-explosive and non-aerial, snakes and glow worms, smoke devices, and trick noisemakers, which include party poppers, snappers, and drop pops.

Under the bill, the sale, possession, and use of fireworks is restricted to an authorized purchaser with a valid permit to purchase fireworks for public display as approved by a municipality.

According to the bill, someone selling fireworks would be charged with a fourth degree crime, which is punishable by imprisonment of up to 18 months, a fine of up to $10,000, or both.

A person who unlawfully purchases, possesses, or uses fireworks is guilty of a petty disorderly persons offense, which is punishable by up to 30 days’ imprisonment, a fine of up to $500, or both.