It was just last week that we pondered the usual post-Fourth of July question — what should the District do about the annual DIY firework displays that help mark America’s independence? Council member Jim Graham (D-Ward 1) may have an answer.

Today Graham is introducing legislation that would severely restrict the use of fireworks and prohibit their sale. According to a press release from Graham’s office, “The bill requires a permit for the display of fireworks and provides a civil penalty for illegal possession or use…[it] also provides a civil penalty for the sale of fireworks.” Graham and then-Ward 4 Council member Adrian Fenty introduced similar legislation in 2004, and Fire & EMS Chief Dennis Rubin recently advocated a ban of fireworks for personal use.

This is bound to provoke more of the debate we saw last time we mentioned the possibility of a ban. On the one hand, homeowners and some residents have expressed concern with the safety of the July 4th tradition, especially in a city where kids have been known to throw rocks at pedestrians and cyclists for a good time. On the other hand, for every one kid causing mayhem with a bottle-rocket, there are plenty running around innocently with sparklers. And as with any prohibition, many wonder how such a measure would be enforced. Of course, it would be precious to see a crowd of 10-year-olds march down to the Wilson Building to request permits to light a couple of fountains and sparklers.