Releasing Balloons May Become Illegal in Florida

A bill that bans the intentional release of balloons, approved by the Florida House of Representatives, is now headed to Governor Ron DeSantis' desk. If signed, it would take effect on July 1st. The initiative aims to "curb microplastics and ocean pollution," according to The New York Times, citing scientific research indicating that balloons ending up in the ocean "are 32 times more likely to kill seabirds than other types of plastic waste."

Previously, a law allowed the release of up to nine balloons per person outdoors within a 24-hour period. However, proponents of the new bill argue that it failed to reduce marine litter. This led to state Representative Linda Chaney and state Senator Nick DiCeglie sponsoring the bill, which was also promoted by environmentalists.

Chaney, in an email cited by the news portal, pointed out that balloons "contribute to more microplastic pollution, which harms all living beings, including humans, and contaminates air and drinking water." On this topic, she expressed hope that the bill would raise awareness about the issue of litter, specifically these festive objects.

Chaney mentioned that she first heard about the dangers of balloon debris in 2020. During an investigation, she learned that a pregnant cow and her unborn calf died after ingesting a balloon while grazing. However, it is common for aquatic animals to mistake balloons for jellyfish and die after ingesting them, noted The New York Times, warning that they are also a threat to terrestrial species.

The new legislation emphasizes that balloons are an environmental hazard, and intentionally releasing them is akin to littering, a non-criminal offense with a $150 fine. Supporters of the new bill applaud that the ban extends to the release of biodegradable balloons.

However, the initiative does not restrict their sale as party items; if the new legislation is approved, their use would be allowed indoors and outdoors if properly secured. The new rule exempts balloons released by any government agency or for government-approved scientific purposes. Also exempt are hot air balloons that are recovered after being launched or those released by children six years old or younger.

According to The New York Times, the bill has found supporters, including the Florida Retail Federation and the Coalition for Responsible Celebrations. It is also seen as a victory for environmentalists hamstrung by Florida's law known as the "prohibition on prohibitions," which prevents counties and municipalities from regulating plastic bags and single-use plastics.

Last April, Governor Ron DeSantis signed a bill authorizing chaplains to offer voluntary counseling in public and charter schools, although he warned that Satanists would not be accepted. "Some have said that if you have a school chaplain program, somehow you're going to have Satanists running all over our schools," the governor said at a press conference, reported The Western Journal.

However, DeSantis urged Satanists not to participate in the Florida school program, arguing that "that's not a religion. That doesn't qualify to be part of this, we'll use common sense, so you don't have to worry about that."