New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Assembly Bill A01101

Introduced
1/9/25  
Refer
1/9/25  
Report Pass
4/2/25  
Refer
4/2/25  

Caption

Relates to prohibiting the release of certain balloons; prohibits a person from knowingly or intentionally releasing outdoors any balloons constructed of electrically conductive material filled with helium or a gas lighter than air; provides exceptions.

Summary

Bill A01101 seeks to amend the environmental conservation law in New York by prohibiting the release of certain types of balloons outdoors. Specifically, it bans the release of balloons made from electrically conductive materials filled with helium or any gas lighter than air. Additionally, it restricts the release of 25 or more non-electrically conductive balloons filled with helium or lighter gases within a 24-hour period. The bill includes exceptions for scientific instrumentation balloons and manned hot air balloons.

Impact

If enacted, this bill would introduce new regulations on the release of balloons in New York, aiming to reduce environmental hazards associated with balloon debris, particularly in relation to wildlife and pollution. It would amend existing environmental laws to include these specific prohibitions, potentially impacting event organizers, retailers, and individuals who frequently use balloons for celebrations or promotions.

Sentiment

The sentiment around Bill A01101 appears to be generally favorable within the Assembly Environmental Conservation Committee, as indicated by the favorable vote of 21 yeas to 7 nays during the committee's review. Supporters argue that the bill is a necessary step towards environmental protection, while opponents may raise concerns about personal freedoms and the impact on celebrations.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the balance between environmental protection and individual rights, particularly regarding the restrictions on personal celebrations and events. Some committee members expressed concerns about the practicality of enforcing such regulations and the potential economic impact on businesses that sell balloons.

Companion Bills

NY S00075

Same As Relates to prohibiting the release of certain balloons; prohibits a person from knowingly or intentionally releasing outdoors any balloons constructed of electrically conductive material filled with helium or a gas lighter than air; provides exceptions.

Previously Filed As

NY S00605

Relates to prohibiting the release of certain balloons; prohibits a person from knowingly or intentionally releasing outdoors any balloons constructed of electrically conductive material filled with helium or a gas lighter than air; provides exceptions.

NY S00075

Relates to prohibiting the release of certain balloons; prohibits a person from knowingly or intentionally releasing outdoors any balloons constructed of electrically conductive material filled with helium or a gas lighter than air; provides exceptions.

NY HB581

Prohibits releasing inflated balloons outdoors (EN INCREASE SD RV See Note)

NY SB00452

An Act Concerning The Release Of Lighter-than-air Balloons.

NY SB2015

Outdoor balloon releases; ban apart from certain exceptions.

NY SB2328

Outdoor balloon releases; ban apart from certain exceptions.

NY AB194

Prohibits the release of certain balloons that are lighter than air under certain circumstances. (BDR 15-338)

NY SB00886

An Act Prohibiting The Sale Of Lighter-than-air Balloons Unless Such Balloons Are Biodegradable.

NY S20

Prohibiting Certain Mass Balloon Releases

NY HB05530

An Act Concerning Helium And Lighter-than-air Balloons.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.