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Posted: Tuesday, April 21st, 2009 12:19 PM HST

Proposed fireworks surcharge enflames wholesalers

By Associated Press

HONOLULU (AP) — The state's wholesalers of legal fireworks are balking at a proposed 50 percent surcharge that is aimed at cutting sales and easing health and safety concerns on the Fourth of July and New Year's. A House measure would add the surcharge to gross sales and require retailers to register with the state. A Senate version would hike the fireworks permit from $25 to $35, and an importer's license from $3,000 to $4,000. The wholesalers say the surcharge would make legal fireworks too expensive and drive them out of business. They contend that the demand for illegal fireworks would rise. Supporters say the new charges would decrease the use of fireworks and lead to less air pollution, injuries and noise on the two holidays. Latest Hawaii news, business, entertainment and sports: (Copyright 2009 Associated Press. All rights reserved)