PHOENIX — Legislation to legalize sparklers and fountain fireworks is advancing in the Legislature.
The House on Thursday gave preliminary approval to the bill, setting the stage for a formal vote that could send it to the Senate.
The House amended to bill to set a minimum age of 16 for purchasers and to allow cities and towns to regulate or prohibit use within their boundaries.
Republican Rep. Lucy Mason of Prescott says the local authority would help prevent fires in forested communities. Democratic Rep. Tom Chabin of Flagstaff says counties should have that authority for unincorporated areas.
The industry-backed bill (HB2258) does not legalize firecrackers and other devices that explode or shoot up into the air.