H.R. 8593: Fireworks for Freedom Act

The bill, titled the Fireworks for Freedom Act, proposes to facilitate fireworks displays across the United States during the year 2026, which marks the 250th anniversary of the country, known as America250. The goal of the bill is to encourage widespread public participation in fireworks events as part of the nationwide celebrations. Here are the main points of the bill:

Findings and Purpose

The bill states that:

• 2026 marks a significant milestone in American history as the 250th anniversary of independence.
• Fireworks displays have been a longstanding tradition in America since 1777.
• A streamlined regulatory framework will help communities of all sizes celebrate this occasion, while still allowing local governments to address safety and other concerns.

The purpose of the bill is to temporarily suspend certain federal and state regulations concerning fireworks displays, thereby promoting maximum public engagement, while ensuring local authorities retain their jurisdiction over specific community safety issues.

Definitions

The bill defines several key terms:

• Covered fireworks display: Any public or private fireworks display, including consumer and commercial fireworks, conducted throughout the United States during the covered period.
• Covered period: The time frame beginning with the enactment of this bill and ending on December 31, 2026.
• Unit of local government: Refers to various forms of local governance, including cities, counties, and tribal jurisdictions, as well as entities performing governmental functions.

Waiver of Federal and State Law

The bill issues a waiver on many federal and state laws concerning fireworks displays during the covered period. Key points include:

• Federal and state laws cannot prohibit or impose penalties on fireworks displays, though local regulations remain enforceable.
• Specific waivers include the suspension of local event permitting, storage requirements, and notification rules, while keeping federal safety standards intact for pyrotechnics and environmental protection.
• This waiver allows local conditions such as fire codes and noise regulations to remain subject to local authority.

Preservation of Federal Authority

The bill ensures that certain federal laws continue to apply, including those related to:

• Explosive materials and their licensing.
• Hazardous materials transportation.
• Consumer safety standards.
• Occupational health and safety.
• Environmental protections under the Clean Air Act.

Preservation of Local Authority

Local governments will retain the power to regulate fireworks displays, covering:

• Permitting and licensing of display operators.
• Compliance with local fire codes and noise ordinances.
• Safety measures suited to community-specific needs, including responses to emergencies.

This means local agencies can still enforce ordinances and restrictions based on their specific community situations, despite the broader waivers provided by the bill.

Sunset Provision

The provisions of this bill, including the waivers, will terminate at 11:59 p.m. EST on December 31, 2026.

Relevant Companies

• EXB - This is a company that manufactures fireworks and could see increased demand during the celebrations.
• PYRO - A distributor of fireworks that may benefit from expanded opportunities to host fireworks displays across various municipalities in 2026.