Primary Department: Commissioner, Precinct 4
Primary Department Head/Elected Official: Lesley Briones, Commissioner
Secondary Department: N/A
Secondary Department Head/Elected Official: N/A
Regular or Supplemental RCA: Regular RCA
Type of Request: Policy
Project ID (if applicable): N/A
Vendor/Entity Legal Name (if applicable): N/A
MWBE Contracted Goal (if applicable): N/A
MWBE Current Participation (if applicable): N/A
Justification for 0% MWBE Participation Goal: N/A - Goal not applicable to request
Grant Indirect Costs Rate (if applicable): N/A
Justification for 0% Grant Indirect Costs Rate (if applicable): N/A - Not a grant item
Request Summary (Agenda Caption):
title
Request for discussion and possible action to authorize Diwali fireworks sales, in accordance with the regulations outlined in H.B. 608.
end
Background and Discussion:
House Bill 608, effective September 1, 2023, allows counties to approve retail fireworks sales for Diwali, starting five days before the holiday and ending at midnight on the last day. Dates vary each year based on the Hindu calendar.
On September 19, 2024, Commissioners Court approved a one-year Diwali fireworks sales period and requested public safety data to help guide future decisions.
In 2025, Diwali falls on October 20. To meet statutory deadlines, any new order must be approved by October 5, 2025, at the latest. This item is a request to discuss safety and economic data and possible action to authorize the 2025 Diwali fireworks sales season. Early action will support safe and effective planning for the holiday.
Expected Impact:
Adopting a community-based and safety-focused plan provided by the Harris County Fire Marshal's Office will bring Harris County into compliance with current law. Authorization will also support an important community celebration.
Alternative Options: N/A
County Strategic Plan Goal: 3. Make our economy more inclusive.
County Strategic Plan Objective: M: Ensure that Harris County rema...
Click here for full text