Nation IN BRIEF : NATIONWIDE : Panel Bans Sale of Shell Fireworks

The Consumer Product Safety Commission voted to ban the sale to the public of fireworks consisting of large shells fired from reusable tubes, saying they have caused eye losses and other facial injuries. The vote applies to reloadable-tube, aerial-shell fireworks larger than 1.75 inches in outer diameter. Commissioner Carol G. Dawson dissented on the 2-1 vote, arguing that the products are already effectively banned by a voluntary standard agreed to by the fireworks industry. The ban will take effect in 60 days unless postponed on the basis of objections filed during a 30-day period for public comment.