Downloads
CS/HB 321 — Release of Balloons
by Agriculture, Conservation & Resiliency Subcommittee and Reps. Chaney, Mooney, and others (CS/CS/SB 602 by Fiscal Policy Committee; Environment and Natural Resources Committee; and Senator DiCeglie)
This summary is provided for information only and does not represent the opinion of any Senator, Senate Officer, or Senate Office.
Prepared by: Environment and Natural Resources Committee (EN)
The bill prohibits the intentional release of balloons inflated with a gas that is lighter than air. To effect this change, the bill removes language allowing the intentional release of fewer than 10 balloons within a 24-hour period. The bill also removes an exemption for the intentional release of biodegradable or photodegradable balloons.
The bill provides that the intentional release of balloons is punishable under the Florida Litter Law by revising the Florida Litter Law’s definition of “dump” to include, with respect to balloons, to intentionally release, organize the release of, or intentionally cause to be released. It also revises the Florida Litter Law’s definition of “litter” to include balloons.
The bill provides that laws regulating the intentional release of balloons do not apply to a child six years of age or younger.
If approved by the Governor, or allowed to become law without the Governor’s signature, these provisions take effect July 1, 2024.
Vote: Senate 38-2; House 102-9