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House passes bottle rocket sale bill

The House has voted to remove a ban on the sale of bottle rockets.

In 2007, the Legislature banned the sale of bottle rockets. It was still legal to possess those fireworks.

"Practically speaking, this law is pretty silly," said Rep. Rick Becker (R-Bismarck). "If you believe in the nanny state, vote red on this bill. But if you believe in freedom, even a small freedom like this, vote green."

Bujt opponents say there are good reasons to try and control the number of bottle rockets.

"Because of the way bottle rockets are designed, there is a propensity to shoot them horizontally," said Rep. Karen Karls (R-Bismarck). "We're not protecting the rights of those who want to shoot them off -- we're trying to protect the innocent bystander that might get shot in the eye."

The House passed it 53-37 -- it will now be considered by the Senate.