Ballon release ban bill under consideration

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WOLO)– A new bill could change the way some families and communities celebrate.

State lawmakers are considering legislation that would make it illegal to intentionally release balloons filled with gases lighter than air including helium.

While balloon releases may create a meaningful moment in the sky bill supporters say they can have lasting and sometimes deadly consequences on the ground and in the water.

Under the proposed legislation violators would face the same penalties as other littering offenses.