Stricter rules for when and where you could set off fireworks passed the Georgia Senate on Friday, a move that came after some Georgians got a little too enthusiastic last year and left neighbors fuming with late-night noise complaints.
Senate Bill 369 would set new limits on the time fireworks could be ignited during the holidays, set new restrictions where fireworks could be set off and give local authorities more control over regulating fireworks in their communities. One example: The bill would set a midnight cut-off for backyard fireworks on July 3-4 and Jan. 1, up from 2 a.m.
The bill would also make it illegal to shoot fireworks when under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
Senate Rules Committee Chairman Jeff Mullis, R-Chickamauga, who is sponsoring the changes, helped pass the law last year that for the first time made it legal to sell, buy and possess many types of fireworks in the state.
SB 369, which passed on a 50-1 vote, now goes to the state House for consideration.
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