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Omaha City Council votes to shorten July 4 fireworks season

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — The Omaha City Council has voted to reduce the number of days fireworks can be sold and used leading up to Independence Day each year.

On Tuesday, the council voted to shorten the window to sell and buy fireworks in the city from 10 to seven days leading up to July 4. The window to light off fireworks will be even shorter, now allowed only July 2-4.

The council also voted to increase the penalty for first-time violators from $200 to $300. Second offenses could bring a $400 fine, and a third would result in a $500 fine.

Mayor Jean Stothert had earlier proposed reining in the number of days to sell and use fireworks following a glut of complaints over the last two Independence Day celebrations.

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