Illinois lawmakers advance bill to ban mass release of balloons outdoors

Bill would outlaw the release of 50 or more balloons at one time due to environmental concerns
Balloons

ST. LOUIS (KMOX) - The Illinois House of Representatives passed a bill that would limit the release of more than 50 balloons at one time. Proponents say they can cause real damage.

"The release of any balloons into the atmosphere has significant environmental impacts as it pertains to our wildlife, our farm fields, our aquatic life. But it also has a significant impact on our infrastructure," Rep. Sam Ying Ling said.

"They're not just ending up in our lakes and our communities," Rep. David Welter said. "They're also causing damage to our infrastructure in some regard."

If the bill becomes law, violators would first get a warning. Future violations would result in a fine up to $500.

The bill now heads to the Illinois Senate for consideration.

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