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Sandra Chapman/Eyewitness News
Indianapolis - Ever since the Chinese invented fireworks 2,000 years ago, people have taken delight in setting them off. The invention of the firecracker is attributed to a Chinese monk way back when. This summer will mark the first time his invention can be set off legally in Indiana.
Elizabeth Howard is the owner of Celebration Fireworks on the northwest side. The facility is basically a warehouse filled with all types of now legal explosives.
"You know anything that's in here they can buy and they can shoot out," Howard said.
Previously the state made those purchasing a snap, crackle, or pop sign an agreement to only set them off outside Indiana or in designated areas.
But after years of ridicule and non-compliance, Indiana's fuse for fireworks is now legally ignited. A new state law restricts lighting fireworks on the users property only. Firing anywhere else means a $500 fine. Howard says two-time offenders can face a formal misdemeanor charge.
"We need to make sure that people understand that you need to have room to be able to shoot those items off, that still it's not a children's item," she said.
In 2005, $40 million worth of fireworks were sold in Indiana. Now, beginning June 1, the state plans to implement a five-percent public safety tax on the sale of these dangerous party poppers. State Fire Marshall Roger Johnson says that money will be used to create a safety net of training.
"To assist firefighters on a regional basis and the ten Homeland Security Districts to provide firefighter training, safety, and education so that everyone can go home," he said.
Based on last year's sales the Department of Revenue expects to bring in $3 million this year alone.
All vendors wanting to sell fireworks must register with the state. So far 204 have signed up.
The Fire Marshal says the retail sales locations must undergo inspection by the Indiana Department of Homeland Security.
