Assembly Bill 352 aims to regulate the release of certain balloons into the atmosphere, specifically targeting 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, for scientific or meteorological purposes, or by government agencies for similar purposes. The bill also grants the Department of Natural Resources the authority to create rules necessary for its implementation.

In addition to the new regulations, the bill amends existing statutes related to the enforcement of environmental laws. It includes the insertion of the new section 287.83, which outlines the limitations on balloon releases, and updates sections 23.50, 23.65, 287.91, and 287.97 to incorporate the new provisions. Notably, the penalties for violations of the new balloon release regulations are specified, with a forfeiture of $500 for each violation of section 287.83. The bill reflects a broader effort to address environmental concerns associated with balloon releases.

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