Proposed 'Balloon Ban' Would End Outdoor Releases

Sights like this balloon on the sand in Ocean Grove would be history if a bill now in the state legislature becomes law. Sponsored by state Sen. Jim Whelan, D-Atlantic, the bill (S3177) would ban the intentional outdoors release of helium-filled balloons, and calls for a fine of up to $500 for each offense.

Proponents of the bill say the releases do everything from litter the landscape to harm animals, especially marine animals, who eat them wherever they land.  Opponents see it as a threat to small businesses that rely on releases for celebrations and memorials. The bill exempts hot air balloons, research or meteorological balloons, and balloons that are released indoors.

According to the bill, balloon releases are already banned in several Jersey Shore municipalities, including Atlantic City, Margate City, and Ventnor City.