The governor of Florida, Ron DeSantis, signed a bill that will prohibit state residents from intentionally releasing balloons and involves fines of up to $1000.
The law, known as HB 321, was sponsored by Representative Linda Chaney, R-St. Pete Beach, and aims to reduce waste and protect the environment, Local 10 cited.
The initiative aims to "stop microplastics and pollution in the seas," pointed out The New York Times in May, 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."
The bill signed on Monday will impose fines on those who release balloons, a practice commonly used at events to remember loved ones or for gender reveals.
The new legislation establishes a fine of $150 for the intentional release of even a single balloon, eliminating the current permissiveness of Florida law that allows the intentional release of up to nine balloons.
The proponents of the new project argue that the law allowing the release of nine balloons did not fulfill the goal of reducing marine litter.
On the other hand, balloons that weigh more than 15 pounds will be subject to a fine of up to $1,000.
Of each fine imposed, $50 will be allocated to the solid waste management trust fund of the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, the information specifies.
The law, which will come into effect on July 1, 2024, establishes an exception for children under 6 years old, who will not be subject to these fines.
The new legislation emphasizes that balloons are an environmental hazard, and releasing them intentionally is the same as littering, a non-criminal offense that carries a fine of $150.
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