Bill > H3047

This bill adds a new section to South Carolina law that makes it illegal to intentionally release balloons filled with lighter-than-air gases, with a few specific exceptions. The exceptions include balloons released for governmental scientific or meteorological purposes, hot air balloons that are recovered after launching, and balloons released indoors. The bill classifies balloon release as a form of littering and makes it punishable under existing litter control laws, though children six years old and younger cannot be charged with a violation. The legislation also updates the state's litter control statute to explicitly include balloons as a type of litter that cannot be disposed of on public or private property without permission. Additionally, the bill modifies existing law to allow law enforcement officers to accept a cash bond from individuals charged with balloon release or litter violations, providing an alternative to an immediate court appearance. The new law will take effect upon the Governor's approval, and it does not impact any pending legal actions or rights that existed before its implementation.

Justice

https://www.scstatehouse.gov/billsearch.php?billnumbers=3047&session=126&summary=B