NORTH LIMA, Ohio - The Ohio legislature is once again considering changes to the states fireworks laws.

At the Phantom Fireworks store in North Lima, people were getting a jump on their shopping to beat the holiday rush. Admittedly, most of what they are buying is not legal to set off in the state of Ohio. 

Under current law consumers sign a form agreeing to take fireworks outside of Ohio within 48 hours after buying them. A proposed change would eliminate that long standing requirement.

"The only thing that really changes for people coming into the store is not having to sign the so-called 'liars form'," said B.J. Alan Company spokesperson Raechelle Laughlin.

The "liars form" got it's name from the fact that many people sign the required document when purchasing fireworks, knowing full well they intend to set them off here in Ohio.

Other than novelties, such as sparklers and ground displays, people would still be banned from setting off most of the store's inventory. And yes, there are criminal penalties for violating fireworks laws.

A first offense is punishable with up to six months in jail and up to a one-thousand dollar fine. Any subsequent conviction carries a potential prison term of up to one year. B.J.Alan says 43 states now allow fireworks, including New York for the first time this year.

"Our law needs fixed, consumers can but these products but they can't use them," Laughlin said.

Amy Ford of Steubenville, who was helping her husband fill two shopping carts, says it's time for Ohio to change.

"To me, Ohio should let us set fireworks off, this is Independence Day for America, I don't see why Ohio has a problem with that," Ford said.

A similar bill failed to pass the legislature last year. State Senators have added this new provision to the state budget bill.