TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Governor Ron DeSantis has signed a bill into law that would prohibit Floridians from intentionally releasing balloons.
HB 321 was sponsored by Rep. Linda Chaney, R-St. Pete Beach. The bill, signed on Monday, would fine Floridians found releasing balloons, typically used to remember loved ones or for gender reveals, a littering fine.
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Right now, Florida law allows the intentional release of up to nine balloons. Under this new legislation, the intentional release of even one balloon will carry a $150 fine per violation.
Balloons over 15 pounds would incur a fine that can reach up to $1,000.
The Florida Department of Environmental Protection’s solid waste management trust fund would receive $50 of the fine.
Floridians under the age of 6 are exempt.
The new law will take effect on July 1, 2024.
For more environmentally friendly ways to honor or memorialize a loved one, click here.