CHICAGO (April 9, 2026) — As construction season ramps up across Illinois, the personal injury law firm Salvi, Schostok & Pritchard is raising awareness of a new state law that strengthens the supervision requirements and addresses the safe handling of explosive materials. SB 2431 went into effect on January 1, 2026 and makes critical updates to the Illinois Explosives Act with a renewed focus on accountability, supervision, and safe handling practices.
Senate Bill 2431, now enacted as Public Act 104-0420, strengthens the Illinois law concerning the use, possession, storage, and transfer of explosive materials — including fireworks and other dangerous substances. Notably, the new law requires a person holding a valid Illinois Individual Explosives License must directly supervise any contractor or employee during the use or disposal of explosive materials, ensuring qualified oversight is present during high-risk projects.
Key updates under SB 2431 include:
- Direct Supervision Requirements: Licensed explosives professionals must now be physically present and directly supervising contractors or employees during the use or disposal of explosive materials, strengthening on-site accountability and reducing the risk of injury or fatalities.
- Clearer Storage Standards: Bulk storage of consumer fireworks exceeding 1,001 pounds must comply with federal and state safety requirements and be held in certified magazine facilities that meet distancing and safety protocols.
- Enhanced Record-Keeping: In an effort to help regulators ensure proper handling, the Act introduces more defined requirements for tracking and documenting explosive materials.
- Eligibility Restrictions: Individuals who are unlawful users of alcohol or controlled substances, or who have had their explosives license revoked twice, will be unable to renew or obtain an explosives license.
Attorney Brian L. Salvi is available to discuss this new Illinois law in more detail. Mr. Salvi and his law firm, Salvi, Schostok & Pritchard, P.C., have extensive experience representing individuals injured by the negligent use and handling of explosive materials. The firm’s record of success includes more than $3.5 billion in verdicts and settlements.
Please contact the firm’s PR Director, Marcie Mangan, at (312) 372-1227 or mmangan@salvilaw.com to set up an interview or obtain additional information.
###
