Florida House passes bill prohibiting balloon releases to protect wildlife and environment

FLORIDA – The Florida House passed a bill that prohibits the intentional release and organization of a release of balloons, citing its danger to wildlife and the environment.

The bill analysis said as balloons are released, they drift away and eventually fall somewhere becoming litter. That litter can be dangerous to wildlife and the environment. Balloons take years to break down and often end up in waterways where marine animals can swallow them.

The bill analysis said turtles eat balloons because they look like jellyfish. The balloons can also block airways and become lodged in their intestines. Ribbons and strings can entangle birds and other animals.

A person who violates the new law will be subject to a $250 fine.

The bill said kids six years old and younger who intentionally release a balloon are not subject to penalties.

If Governor DeSantis signs, the bill will be in effect on July 1.

Read the bill analysis here