BOSTON - Local Fire Officals across the state are arguing that legalizing the sale of fireworks will lead to an increased number of fires and personal injuries. Fireworks are currently a billion dollar buisness in 46 other states.

The bill will give each city or town the option to issue permits for the sale and use of fireworks.

Proponents of the bill state the added $2 Million generated in tax revenue by legalizing them. They also show to the statistics of personal injuries decreasing as more state legalized their use.

ALBANY, N.Y. (AP) - The U.S. Senate has passed legislation meant to address the high unemployment rate among returning veterans.

New York Sen. Charles Schumer, a cosponsor, says the unemployment rate for veterans returning from Iraq and Afghanistan hovers near 15 percent in some counties.

The bill, approved 94-1, would provide tax credits for employers hiring veterans, as well as job training to help vets return to the work force.

The Hire Heroes Act would provide companies that hire a vet who has been looking for work for at least four weeks to get a tax credit of $2,400.

Businesses that hire a vet who has been looking for a job for at least six months would get a $5,600 tax credit.
      

      
(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press.  All Rights Reserved.)

PITTSFIELD, Mass. (AP) - Barring any successful recount, Daniel Bianchi will be the next mayor of Pittsfield after one of the closest elections in recent memory in the Berkshire County city.

Bianchi defeated Peter Marchetti by less than 1 percent of the total vote in the race to succeed James Ruberto, who chose not seek another term.

The Berkshire Eagle reports that unofficial returns showed Bianchi receiving 6,144 votes to 6,038 for Marchetti in Tuesday's election.

Bianchi is a former city councilor and director of administration and finance for the city.

Marchetti, a city councilor, told the newspaper he would decide on Wednesday whether to seek a recount.

(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press.  All Rights Reserved.)