Nathan Deal hints support for legalizing fireworks sales in Georgia | Political Insider blog

Most of this legislative session’s most significant bills already have Gov. Nathan Deal’s stamp of approval. But the governor is hinting he may also support a proposal that has sparked years of debate under the Gold Dome.

Georgia lawmakers gave final approval last month to a measure that would legalize the sale of consumer fireworks in Georgia. House Bill 110 would let Georgians buy bottle rockets, Roman candles and other launchers in Georgia.

Supporters pit as an economic development argument that will spark the economy, since every state bordering Georgia except North Carolina already allows their citizens to buy fireworks. Opponents, including firefighters and healthcare groups, have fought the proposal by pointing to tragic cases of maimed children and damaged property.

Deal said he is weighing the safety concerns. But he suggested the proposal is less explosive than it once was.

“By and large, I think we acknowledge that citizens of Georgia are buying fireworks in adjoining states,” he said Tuesday. “And the issue of safety is simply a question of whether or not somebody can afford to cross the state line and buy fireworks.”

via Nathan Deal hints support for legalizing fireworks sales in Georgia | Political Insider blog.