DeSantis signs law against intentionally releasing balloons.
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis recently took action to protect the state’s beaches and wildlife by signing a bill that prohibits the intentional release of balloons. This legislation was introduced to address the issue of balloons ending up in the ocean and on the shores of Florida’s beaches. State Representative Linda Chaney, a Republican who sponsored the bill, highlighted the broad support it received from both ocean conservation groups and cattle farmers.
Chaney emphasized the importance of safeguarding Florida’s beaches, referring to them as the state’s greatest asset. She stated, “Not releasing a balloon is an easy way to protect our waterways and our wildlife. A released balloon is damaging, and there’s nothing good about it.”
Despite his support for the bill, Governor DeSantis expressed concerns regarding the potential for increased fines on Florida residents. His office specifically worried that the law might inadvertently result in fines being imposed on children. In response to these concerns, the bill was amended to exclude children aged 6 years and younger from facing fines.
Emma Haydocy, a spokesperson for the Surfrider Foundation, echoed the sentiments of many Floridians and tourists by stating, “Floridians don’t want balloon litter in their backyard, at their favorite beach, or floating in local waterways.” The detrimental impact of stray balloons on wildlife was also highlighted, with both ocean conservationists and cattle farmers noting the dangers balloons pose when mistaken for food by animals.
Sea turtles and cattle have been known to suffer health issues from consuming plastic debris that finds its way into their habitats. By implementing this ban on intentional balloon releases, Florida aims to mitigate the harm caused to its delicate ecosystems and protect its precious wildlife.
