A new state law allows Oklahoma fireworks vendors to stay open longer for this year's Independence Day celebrations.
CNHI Oklahoma reports that Senate Bill 635 took effect Monday and allows licensed retailers to sell from June 15 to July 6 or the first Sunday after July 4 — whichever comes later. Previously the state required retailers to shut down by July 6.
Oklahoma law continues to allow licensed manufacturers, distributors or wholesalers to sell year-round.
Republican state Sen. Mark Allen authored the measure. He said it's intended to help vendors make more cash. Some give that to charities.
Julie L. Heckman of the American Pyrotechnics Association says consumer firework sales this year could exceed $1 billion. From 80% to 95% of fireworks revenue comes around the Fourth of July.