In fireworks-wary Illinois, relaxing law sparks a debate John O'Connor, Associated Press April 5, 2021 FacebookTwitterEmail Legislation sponsored by Democratic Rep. Robert Rita would add to a short list of allowable novelty fireworks “ground-based sparklers that are nonexplosive and non-aerial” to light up backyards on Independence Day or other family festivals.Ren Photo | Getty Images Sandwiched between states that consider fireworks a veritable patriotic right, Illinois advocates are trying to loosen what are among the nation’s strictest prohibitions by legalizing “fountains,” a fireworks show-in-a-box that can unleash multicolored sparks, whizzing streaks and sharp reports. Opponents say they’ll produce more ghastly fireworks-related injuries in emergency rooms.