Sparklers to be Re-Outlawed in Several Hudson Valley Towns

It looks like sparklers and small fireworks will soon become illegal again in at least a few Hudson Valley communities.

Thanks to legislation signed by Governor Cuomo this week, some local towns may soon decide to make fireworks illegal again. Last year certain non-explosive fireworks were made legal throughout the state. Orange County was just one of the many Hudson Valley counties that decided to opt-in to the new law, allowing sales throughout the county.

But now some communities are regretting that decision, citing complaints from residents who say the law has created a nuisance.  The bill signed by Cuomo now allows those towns to opt out of the law, essential re-banning fireworks. The Times Herald Record reports that Newburgh, Middletow and Port Jervis are all considering a repeal of the fireworks law.

After police reported a “firestorm” of complaints from Middletown residents, Mayor Joseph DeStefano enlisted the help of Orange County Legislator Jeffrey Berkman to help write the the law that was approved by both the Senate and Assembly in June. It was finally signed by the Governor on Tuesday.

The current law allows residents to purchase fireworks between from December 26 to January 2 and June 1 to July 5. The opt-out exception takes place immediately, so communities could vote to repeal the sale of fireworks before they begin again in December.

We want to know what you think about legal fireworks. Do you see them as a problem in your town or would you like to see them remain legal? Let us know your thoughts on our Facebook page or in the comments section below.