DeSantis Signs Bill Banning Balloon Releases in Florida

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has signed a bill that will ban residents from intentionally releasing balloons, with fines reaching up to $1,000. The law, known as HB 321, was sponsored by Representative Linda Chaney, R-St. Pete Beach, and aims to reduce litter and protect the environment, according to Local 10.

Environmental Concerns and Legislative Measures

The initiative seeks to "curb microplastics and marine pollution," noted The New York Times in May, citing scientific research that indicates balloons ending up in the ocean are "32 times more likely to kill seabirds than other types of plastic waste." The bill, signed on Monday, will impose fines on those who release balloons, a practice commonly used at events to remember loved ones or during gender reveal parties.

The new legislation sets a fine of $150 for the intentional release of even a single balloon, eliminating the current Florida law's allowance for the intentional release of up to nine balloons. Advocates for the new bill argue that the previous law did not effectively reduce marine litter. Balloons weighing more than 15 pounds will be subject to a fine of up to $1,000.

Of each fine imposed, $50 will go to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection's solid waste management trust fund, the report specifies. The law, which will take effect on July 1, 2024, includes an exception for children under 6 years old, who will not be subject to these fines.

The new legislation emphasizes that balloons pose an environmental hazard, and intentionally releasing them is equated to littering, a non-criminal offense with a $150 fine.