Galesburg Reporter

Fireworks are a part of summertime traditions, but in Illinois, the spectacular nighttime displays remain largely banned. 

While the state has bans and limitations, many law enforcement agencies tend to turn a blind eye unless violators are causing a lot of trouble and bothering neighbors. The fireworks ban not only dampened the Fourth of July and other holidays, but it denies the state a huge moneymaker, not to mention jobs, Illinois Policy reported in late June. 

In Indiana, fireworks generate approximately $2.5 million a year and create 4,000 seasonal jobs, all of which Illinois is losing out on by banning the use of fireworks. In the nation as a whole, Americans spend approximately $1 billion a year on fireworks as well. 

Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker | Wikipedia commons

In Illinois, sparklers, small noisemakers and smoke bombs are allowed, but all other fireworks are banned. The penalty for using fireworks, possessing or transporting them is a Class A misdemeanor, according to Illinois Policy. This can result in up to a $2,500 fine or a year in prison. Bringing fireworks into Illinois from another state can also result in a federal offense. 

Within the last nine years, eight states have lifted their firework bans, but Illinois keeps its restriction in place. The state fire ban has been around since 1942. 

If the state were to consider lifting the ban, some would oppose the change, mainly for safety reasons such as injuries that can be received when using fireworks, Illinois Policy reported. 

But a report from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission in 2018 said there aren't many firework accidents. 

"There is not a statistically significant trend in estimated emergency department-treated, fireworks-related injuries from 2003 to 2018," the report states. 

Many believe it's time Illinois gets to celebrate holidays with fireworks, much like the Founding Fathers envisioned. 

“[Independence Day] ought to be solemnized with pomp and parade, with shews, games, sports, guns, bells, bonfires and illuminations from one end of this continent to the other from this time forward forever more," Johns Adams wrote in a letter to his wife on July 3, 1776.