Michigan legislators introduce bill to ban balloon releases

Lansing, MI – Legislators in Michigan introduced Senate Bill 294 that would outlaw releasing balloons if they’re filled with a gas lighter than air but excluding meteorological, scientific and hot air balloons, according to the bill text.

The civil fine for violators depends on the amount of litter a balloon produces, with a fine of up to $800 for litter less than 1 cubic foot in volume and up to $2,500 for litter that’s 3 cubic feet or more.

Democratic Sen. Mallory McMorrow introduced the bill April 25, and it was referred to the Committee on Energy and Environment the same day.

McMorrow and Democratic Rep. Mari Manoogian introduced similar bills in the Michigan House and Senate in 2021, but the measures did not reach a floor vote.