Senator proposes new measures to regulate fireworks on the island

Public safety, community tranquility, and the protection of vulnerable populations are among the reasons for introducing measures to regulate the sale and use of fireworks.

By THE STAR STAFF

Senator Ada Álvarez Conde introduced a measure to create a new, more rigorous fireworks law called the “PROTECTE” Fireworks Law: Regulation, Order, Tranquility, Environment, Guarantee and Empathy of Puerto Rico, with the aim of responsibly addressing the use, possession and sale of fireworks on the Island, prioritizing public safety, the tranquility of communities and the protection of vulnerable populations.

The proposal arises from the increase in incidents, accidents, property damage, harm to people with disabilities, the elderly, children, veterans, as well as domestic and wild animals, in addition to the negative impact on the environment.

Key components of the measure include: a significant increase in fines and penalties for those who violate fireworks regulations, seeking a real deterrent effect; a clear distinction between possession and sale, establishing different responsibilities and consequences depending on the behavior; the creation of protected zones, especially around sensitive residential areas, institutions, hospitals, shelters, communities with people with autism, and spaces where fireworks cause a disproportionate impact; and the allocation of money collected from fines to strengthen the retirement funds of the Puerto Rico Police and Fire Department, recognizing their work and sacrifice in emergency situations.

Additionally, as a supplementary measure, I would amend the current Explosives Act to explicitly include pyrotechnics within its regulatory framework, closing legal loopholes and facilitating its oversight and would include.

He is working on the penalties in the Penal Code and is considering, with the PRITS office, a campaign to promote the use of drone shows, which are being used around the world as alternative measures.

“Fireworks can no longer be a matter of disorder and risk. This law seeks a balance: respect for the celebration, but with empathy, safety, and order. On the one hand, we have a broader consensus against fireworks, and at the same time, we see how there is a disproportionate use of them when they are illegal. There are people without empathy using firecrackers and sticks of dynamite , and we have to go after those insensitive individuals who defy the law thinking it’s training. That’s why PROTEGE must bring protection to our communities, our animals, the environment, and also support the public servants who protect us,” said Senator Álvarez Conde.

The Senator joins the call from various groups during these holidays to avoid fireworks, as well as a call against celebratory gunfire.

The legislation was worked on during the legislative recess, so it would be evaluated in the third session.