Assembly Bill 352 aims to limit the release of certain balloons into the atmosphere, specifically those made of biaxially oriented polyethylene terephthalate (Mylar) and inflated with lighter-than-air gas. The bill prohibits the release of 10 or more such balloons, with violations subject to a $500 forfeiture. Exceptions to this prohibition include balloons released indoors with property owner consent, those released for scientific or meteorological purposes, and balloons released by government agencies for similar purposes. The bill also grants the Department the authority to promulgate necessary rules for its implementation.

In addition to creating a new section (287.83) that outlines the balloon release limitations, the bill amends existing statutes to include the new section in the list of violations enforceable by the attorney general and district attorneys. Specifically, it amends sections 23.50, 23.65, and 287.91, while renumbering and amending section 287.97 to incorporate penalties for violations of the new balloon release regulations. The bill emphasizes the importance of regulating balloon releases to protect the environment while providing clear guidelines and penalties for non-compliance.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 23.50(1), 23.50, 23.65(1), 23.65, 287.91(1), 287.91