House approves fireworks sale expansion

LANSING, Mich. (AP) - Michigan businesses would be allowed to sell higher-grade, more powerful fireworks under legislation approved by the state House.

The bill passed by a 79-28 vote in the Democrat-run House on Wednesday and now goes to the Republican-led Senate.

The legislation could change the summer routine for state residents who now drive into Indiana and other states to buy fireworks that aren't legal in Michigan.

The incentive for lawmakers is raising some money for state government.

Supporters of the bill figure it could raise more than $5 million a year. A portion would go to state fire safety training programs.

The legislation would put a 5 percent fee on fireworks sales. Businesses would have to pay the state $5,000 for their initial license to sell the fireworks.