Lawmakers Consider Balloon Ban In Massachusetts

BOSTON (CBS) – State lawmakers are considering a bill to ban the sale and use of all balloons in Massachusetts.

“The sale, distribution and release of any type of balloon, including, but not limited to, plastic, latex or mylar, filled with any type of lighter than air gas, both for public or private use, is hereby prohibited,” the bill sponsored by Rep. Sarah Peake, D-Provincetown, states. Violators would be fined up to $100.

A hearing was held on the proposal Tuesday.

According to WesternMassNews.com, supporters of the bill say balloons can be deadly for animals and bad for the environment. But opponents said the proposed measure would hurt businesses.

Earlier this year, the town of Orleans debated a balloon ban. Chatham, Nantucket and Block Island have already enacted balloon bans.