Pittsville Fire Chief’s Advocacy Leads to Landmark Legislation

Wisconsin Acts to Ban Unsafe Lighters, Protecting Families

PITTSVILLE, WI (OnFocus) – In a significant step towards promoting fire safety and protecting families across Wisconsin, Assembly Bill 917 has been signed into law. Now known as 2023 Wisconsin Act 271, this legislation marks a pivotal moment in addressing the dangerous proliferation of counterfeit and unsafe lighters that fail American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) Standards. The bill, signed at Pittsville Elementary School, is a testament to the dedicated efforts of Pittsville Fire Department Chief Jerry Minor, who has been a staunch advocate for over a decade.

Act 271 is a result of collaborative efforts within the Pittsville community, spurred by Chief Minor’s unwavering commitment to safety. Recognizing the urgent need for action following a tragic incident in 2008, where a local eight-year-old lost their life in a home fire likely ignited by a lighter, Chief Minor and stakeholders have tirelessly worked towards this legislative milestone.

“I have spent nearly two decades of my career as a first responder advocating on behalf of this important issue to keep our kids and communities safe, and today, I am thrilled to join the governor, students, and community members in seeing this bill finally become law,” said Fire Chief Minor. “Unfortunately, Pittsville knows firsthand the tragic consequences that can occur from fire play with a lighter, and this bill will make a real difference in helping turn the tide of the rising issue of unsafe, unregulated lighters and the threat they pose for kids across Wisconsin.”

The bill, championed with bipartisan support, garnered endorsements from various stakeholders including the Professional Fire Fighters of Wisconsin, Wisconsin Sheriffs and Deputy Sheriffs Association, Wisconsin State Fire Chiefs Association, and the Wisconsin State Firefighters Association.

Assembly Bill 917, now 2023 Wisconsin Act 271, mandates:

• Prohibition of the sale or distribution of counterfeit or unsafe lighters.
• Exemptions for interstate transportation and warehousing of such lighters not intended for retail sale.
• Definition of lighters, counterfeit lighters, and unsafe lighters in accordance with ASTM International standards.

This milestone legislation underscores the collective determination to prioritize fire safety and protect Wisconsin’s communities. It is a testament to the power of collaboration and advocacy in effecting positive change.

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