THE SENATE

S.B. NO.

347

THIRTY-FIRST LEGISLATURE, 2021

S.D. 1

STATE OF HAWAII

H.D. 1

 

 

 

 

 

A BILL FOR AN ACT

 

 

RELATING TO LITTER CONTROL.

 

 

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF HAWAII:

 


     SECTION 1.  The legislature finds that the release of balloons inflated with lighter-than-air gas poses a danger and nuisance to the environment, particularly to wildlife and marine animals.  Many animals are attracted to the bright colors of balloons and mistake them for food, which can cause an animal severe injury or death.  Animals are often found entangled in balloon strings and, as a result, are injured or strangled to death.

     The legislature further finds that several states, including California, Connecticut, Florida, New Jersey, Tennessee, and Virginia, as well as numerous counties in other states, have prohibited the release of balloons inflated with lighter-than-air gases.

     The purpose of this Act is to prohibit the intentional release of balloons inflated with gas that is lighter than air.

     SECTION 2.  Chapter 339, Hawaii Revised Statutes, is amended by adding a new section to part I to be appropriately designated and to read as follows:

     "§339-     Intentional release of balloons; prohibition.  (a)  No person or entity shall intentionally release, organize the release of, or otherwise cause the release of a balloon inflated with a gas that is lighter than air, except for:

     (1)  A balloon released for scientific or meteorological purposes, on behalf of a governmental agency or pursuant to a governmental contract;

     (2)  A hot air balloon that is recovered after launching; or

     (3)  A balloon that is released and remains indoors.

     (b)  Any person or entity who violates this section shall be subject to a civil penalty of no more than $500 for each offense.  For the purposes of this section, the release of multiple balloons at one time shall be considered a single offense."

     SECTION 3.  New statutory material is underscored.

     SECTION 4.  This Act shall take effect on July 1, 2050.



 

Report Title:

Balloons; Intentional Release; Prohibition

 

Description:

Prohibits the intentional release of balloons inflated with a gas that is lighter than air.  Effective 7/1/2050.  (HD1)

 

 

 

The summary description of legislation appearing on this page is for informational purposes only and is not legislation or evidence of legislative intent.