Maryland Considers Legalizing Consumer Fireworks

Proposal aims to boost state revenue, but some residents raise concerns about impact on animals.

Mar. 12, 2026 at 2:11am

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Maryland lawmakers are considering a bill that would allow residents 18 and older to buy, possess, and use consumer fireworks. The bill's sponsors say it would generate around $3.2 million in tax revenue, but some residents, like a local farm owner, are worried about the impact on animals like horses.

Why it matters

The debate over legalizing consumer fireworks in Maryland highlights the ongoing tension between generating tax revenue and addressing public safety and environmental concerns. Proponents argue it will boost the state's budget, while opponents are concerned about the potential harm to animals and property.

The details

The proposed bill would impose a 16% Maryland sales and use tax on consumer fireworks and prohibit their use within 150 feet of an animal housing facility. However, the Maryland Horse Council has proposed larger setbacks of 500 to 1,000 feet. Some residents, like Gina Miller who owns a farm in Eldersburg, are already dealing with issues from neighboring fireworks displays that panic their animals.

  • The Maryland General Assembly is currently considering the fireworks legalization bill.

The players

Del. Kevin Hornberger

A Republican sponsor of the bill to legalize consumer fireworks in Maryland, citing potential tax revenue of $3.2 million.

Gina Miller

A farm owner in Eldersburg, Maryland who is concerned about the impact of fireworks on her horses.

Maryland Horse Council

An organization that has proposed larger setbacks of 500 to 1,000 feet for fireworks use near animal housing facilities.

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What they’re saying

“It will enact roughly $3.2 million in tax revenue for a good and service that most of our citizens are currently buying across state lines and bringing into Maryland and using illegally.”

— Del. Kevin Hornberger (wbal.com)

“This panics my horses, so I drug them, and, I put them in their stalls early and I stay with them all night.”

— Gina Miller, Farm owner (wbal.com)

What’s next

The Maryland General Assembly will continue to debate and consider the fireworks legalization bill in the coming weeks and months.

The takeaway

The debate over legalizing consumer fireworks in Maryland highlights the ongoing challenge of balancing state revenue needs with public safety and environmental concerns. As lawmakers weigh the pros and cons, residents like farm owners will be closely watching the outcome and its potential impact on their animals and communities.