Iowa is positioning itself as a key location for the nation’s upcoming 250th birthday celebrations, aligning with President Donald Trump’s vision of skies illuminated by fireworks. In a move to underscore this commitment, Iowa lawmakers recently pushed through legislation that would prevent local governments from restricting individuals from setting off fireworks like rockets, mortars, and Roman candles on July 3 or 4 and December 31. This bill, which has passed the state legislature, is now awaiting the signature of Republican Governor Kim Reynolds.
The legislation comes in response to limits imposed by several cities, including Des Moines, where individual fireworks displays have been restricted even on these significant dates. Although local restrictions don’t apply to large public displays, Iowa lawmakers want to ensure that citizens can participate fully in the upcoming celebrations, including any events potentially aligned with President Trump’s proposed “Great American State Fair” in Des Moines.
The state House approved the measure with a vote of 51-39, despite opposition from Democrats who voiced concerns over fire safety and potential impacts on military veterans suffering from PTSD. This legislative push was partly inspired by founding father John Adams’ vision of Americans celebrating with parades and fireworks nationwide. Republican state Rep. Bill Gustoff emphasized Iowa’s readiness to play host to any national celebrations, echoing Trump’s 2023 proposal for a yearlong exposition at the Iowa State Fairgrounds.
Fireworks have long been a staple of worldwide celebrations, but local enforcement agencies often grapple with the challenges they pose. While Massachusetts remains the only state with a full ban on individual consumer fireworks, others have variously eased restrictions. For instance, Pennsylvania permitted fireworks sales in 2017 but tightened controls again in 2022 due to complaints. Similarly, Georgia lifted a prolonged ban in 2015 and prevents local governments from imposing restrictions.
Historically, Iowa prohibited consumer fireworks sales, propelled by memories of a catastrophic 1931 fire in Spencer that began with a sparkler. However, changes in 2017 allowed people to purchase and use fireworks during specified periods in summer and winter. Despite the law’s intentions, there has been concern, reflected in 2017 data showing a significant rise in fireworks-related emergency room visits.
Law enforcement and fire safety officials have consistently opposed the indiscriminate use of fireworks, highlighting numerous risks. Democratic state Rep. Larry McBurney highlighted how the sensory effects of fireworks could potentially trigger PTSD among veterans. Rep. Eric Gjerde, a police officer, described how mistaking fireworks for gunfire can lead to heightened police responses.
On the other side of the debate, fireworks manufacturers, retailers, and proponents of small-government policies back the bill, seeing it as a way to honor the spirit of the Declaration of Independence. Rep. Gustoff argued that the current patchwork of local ordinances creates confusion for Iowans who wish to celebrate as envisioned by the nation’s founders.