Authorities in neighboring Sonora have taken several recent steps to reduce the use of fireworks out of concern for animal welfare. 

Coming on the heels of a decree from Gov. Alfonso Durazo banning the use of fireworks at official state functions, the state Congress has unanimously reformed animal protection laws so that their use is now considered an act of animal cruelty.

Deputy Ely Sallard was the sponsor of the measure, the text of which highlights the panic, hearing damage and other harms that fireworks can cause in animals. 

“This will be a legacy,” Sallard said. “That this Legislature leaves in the state for future generations.”