CA AB2709

Effective January 1, 2018, expands prohibition on selling or distributing balloons constructed of electrically conductive material or attached to electrically conductive materials (string, tether, streamer, or other appurtenances)

Eliminates current requirements for weight counterbalance, warning statements, and manufacturer identification on electrically conductive balloons

Broadens outdoor release prohibition to apply to all electrically conductive balloons regardless of whether the release is part of a public event, promotional activity, or product advertisement

Increases penalties from $100 fine for first/second violations to $250 fine for first violation; second or further violations become misdemeanors

Exempts manned hot air balloons, governmental and scientific research balloons, and balloons not designed to be buoyant in ambient air from all restrictions