The Only State in America That Bans Consumer Fireworks is in New England

Fourth of July is this Friday, and there is one thing on everyone's mind...fireworks! Fireworks on July 4th are a staple - one of the best duos in history.

According to a USA Today article, over 1 billion is spent on fireworks annually. 285 million pounds of fireworks are needed for the 14,000 displays nationwide. Essentially, you can't celebrate America's birthday without fireworks.

Well...one state says NO to consumer fireworks. Out of all 50 states, only one state bans the use of consumer fireworks, and it is Massachusetts.

Massachusetts Fireworks Law

According to the Massachusetts Government website, fireworks in the commonwealth must be handled by the "professionals." Officially, "Massachusetts law prohibits the possession, use, and sale of fireworks without a permit and certification."

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So unlike the other 49 states, Massachusetts bans consumer usage.

Massachusetts' ban on consumer fireworks usage is not for nothing...690 people annually use emergency services from fireworks-related injuries on July 4th alone. And an average of seven people die every July 4th from a fireworks-related accident.

But is that a risk people should be able to take on their own? That is the ultimate question. People do things that can lead to death every day. From as serious as skydiving and crabfishing to as "normal" as driving.

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Is controlling firework usage overbearing? Or does the government have the moral obligation to put restrictions on people for their own safety? Despite Massachusetts' law, the commonwealth is not the state with the fewest fireworks-related injuries, which may speak to the "over-controlling" narrative.