A change in state law last October – which allows residents to buy consumer-grade explosive fireworks for the first time in decades – should light up the skies in Pennsylvania this Fourth of July, writes Vinny Vella for the Philadelphia Inquirer.

The newly permitted items can now be bought at both brick-and-mortar stores and seasonal tents. This includes mortars, rockets, and firecrackers with less than 50 mg of explosive material.

The amendment also added a tax of 12 percent, causing industry giants to band together and file a lawsuit in Commonwealth Court against what they say is an unconstitutional measure.

Now, residents in local communities can get a permit from their local fire department for their use. This process may include a visit by the fire marshal. Without the proper approval, though, the use of legally purchased fireworks can become illegal and potentially incur a hefty fine of up to $1,000.

However, law enforcement officers aren’t impressed.

“This fireworks law change isn’t the dumbest thing I ever heard,” said Capt. Joe Daly of the Springfield Police Department. “But it’s probably No. 2.”

Read more about fireworks in the Philadelphia Inquirer here.