Iowa has passed a bill regarding the use of fireworks that may help President Donald Trump bolster celebrations for an upcoming U.S. anniversary.
Why It Matters
The nation’s anniversary is important to Trump. In a January executive order, the president established himself as chair of the Salute to America Task Force 250 and said there would be a “grand celebration” on July 4, 2026, the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
As part of the order, Trump said he will create a national sculpture garden with statues of famous figures in American history like John F. Kennedy. He will create a Great America State Fair—a one-year exhibition that will feature exhibits from every state in the country, which Trump wants to host at the Iowa State Fairgrounds.
Trump also wants a military parade to celebrate the U.S. Army’s 250th birthday, on June 14, which also is his birthday.
What To Know
Ahead of celebrations, the Iowa House has passed a bill prohibiting county boards of supervisors and city councils from limiting or banning fireworks on July 3 and 4 and December 31. That means Iowans will be able to buy a wider range of fireworks and will be able to do private displays on more days of the year.
The bill, which passed 51-39, will enable people to take part in more fireworks celebrations on July 4.
What People Are Saying
Iowa Republican state Representative Bill Gustoff, who managed the bill on the floor: [Lifting local restrictions would allow] “the unwary, patriotic American in Iowa” to celebrate the nation’s anniversary legally.
“Mr. President, we welcome that idea in Iowa, and we’re ready, willing and able to host the party. Iowans would want to join their fellow citizens from around the nation to celebrate the semi-quincentennial birthday of the greatest nation in history, in the world….We need to enable Iowans to be part of that celebration.”
Iowa Democratic Representative Eric Gjerde, who introduced a failed amendment trying to prohibit the use of fireworks for personal use: “When we take away the local control of cities and counties to determine what works best for them and what works best for their individuals—to me, it’s just easier to say, let’s just get rid of consumer fireworks altogether and stick with the display fireworks by our cities and our counties.
“So I think that even though we all enjoy—I enjoy a good firework display—but I also think we need to be certain that’s what’s in the best interest for everybody.”
Donald Trump, in a May 2023 social media video: “Two hundred and 50 years of American independence. What a great country and we have to keep it that way. But that’s why as a nation, we should be preparing for a most spectacular birthday party.”
What Happens Next
The bill will now go to Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds.
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