May 15, 2025
Paws Up! Representatives John R. Illg, Jr. (R-District 78) and R. Dewith Carrier (R-District 32) introduce House Bill 851, which will positively affect the environment and help protect wildlife by banning mass balloon releases.
While balloons are often used to mark special occasions, their impact on wildlife is a concern. When improperly disposed of or intentionally released, these colorful spheres become a threat when mistaken for food. Ingested balloons can lead to starvation, and the strings attached to them pose an additional danger when they become wrapped around animals’ necks or other body parts. This entanglement causes animals to suffer and can be a death sentence for them. Some cities, counties, and states have responded to this danger by passing laws prohibiting mass balloon releases.
Legislators in Louisiana seek to protect wildlife and the environment by introducing House Bill 851. This bill was introduced by House Representatives John R. Illg, Jr. and R. Dewith Carrier at the beginning of April 2025. The bill states that anyone who “intentionally releases” a large number of balloons is subject to a civil penalty of (1) $150 for a first offense, (2) $250 for a second offense, and (3) $500 for a third offense. The final vote in the House was favorable, with 84 voting for the ban and 7 opposing it. Currently, it is in the Senate’s Committee on Environmental Quality.
Take Action: Do you believe that mass balloon releases should be banned to help protect wildlife and keep the environment free from litter? Please contact your senator to show your support for the passage of this bill.