For Immediate Release Contact: Gail H. Davis FY-98-15 Date: August 24, 1998 CHANGES IN FEDERAL EXPLOSIVES REGULATIONS Washington – The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms (ATF) has issued a final rule amending the Federal explosives regulations. The new regulations will increase public safety, eliminate duplication with respect to licensing requirements, and update references and definitions to reflect current explosives industry terminology. Under the new regulations, any person who stores explosive materials must notify their local fire department of sites where explosives are stored or manufactured. Additional changes include increases in Federal explosives license and permit fees. The new regulations are effective on December 22, 1998. For additional information, see today’s issue of the Federal Register, ATF’s Web site at www.atf.treas.gov, or contact the Public Information Division at (202) 927-8500. -end-