Question

Why is it so hard for legislators to make it illegal to release balloons?

Answer 1

Have you written and called and visited your representatives, in-state as well as in D.C. I recommend any or all of these steps, if you want to see action in your state.

Answer 2

Great question. Mass balloon releases are illegal in several states, cities, and countries. Releasing balloons and sky lanterns should be illegal everywhere.

States that have laws: California, Connecticut, Florida, Tennessee and Virginia.
Cities that have laws: Ocean City, Maryland; Louisville, Kentucky; Huntsville, Alabama; San Francisco, California; Nantucket, Massachusetts; Provincetown, Massachusetts; and Baltimore, Maryland.

Comments

I live in Virginia, where the law allows a release of 49 balloons. I consider that to be a mass release. I participate in a marine debris survey, and we've been known to pick up 100+ balloons over a less than one mile stretch. I just wish legislators could grow spines and outlaw releasing ANY balloons.

Answer 3

I believe that people are under educated on this matter. For example, in my own family they thought it was OK to yearly release balloons in honor of my brother. They saw no harm in it. I educated them on why this practice is harmful, especially to marine life and they have changed their minds. So, further education of the public is needed, even at inland locations where the balloons could be consumed by terrestrial animals. Let's get the word out!!

Answer 4

Thought you might want to see this http://www.theweekendsun.co.nz/news/2818-time-to-pop-this-practice.html

Answer 5

There’s no money in it for them.