New Illinois bill would make it illegal to release balloons outside

A new bill moving through the Illinois House could make it illegal to release a large amount of balloons outside. House Bill 418 would include balloon releases as celebratory gatherings, such as weddings, funerals and birthday parties, and infringement could result in a $500 fine. Balloon releases would still be allowed for higher education and scientific or meteorological purposes. The bill was introduced by Rep. Sam Yingling (D-Round Beach) as an amendment to the Environmental Protection Act, and said it was intended to Prevent organized release of large quantities of balloons.