Q&A on the News

Q: Recently, I read where the NFL proposed a rule change that would make it illegal for running backs to lower their head outside the tackle box. Is the NFL going to push this through or is it having second thoughts?

—William McKee Jr., Flowery Branch

A: NFL owners approved that rule Wednesday at their meeting in Phoenix. It will go into effect for the 2013 season. It is now illegal for either a runner or a tackler to initiate contact with the crown of the helmet outside the tackle box and more than 3 yards past the line of scrimmage. The tackle box is the part of the field generally defined as the area between the offensive tackles. The new rule comes with a 15-yard penalty and a possible fine. If an offensive and defensive player each use the crown of their helmets, the penalties will offset.

Q: Did the legislation legalizing certain fireworks in Georgia pass over to the Georgia House?

—Steven Gresham, Covington

A: Senate Resolution 378, which sets "the framework for the sale" of explosive fireworks, passed the Senate 44-5 on March 5. It is a companion piece of legislation to Senate Bill 229, which "details the regulations and legalities pertaining to the sale of fireworks," according to a press release. SR 378 "contains a proposed constitutional amendment allowing local authorization in regards to the sale of fireworks in Georgia, with taxes on the fireworks being exclusively used for trauma care and firefighter training."