Senate Bill 24 Summary

• Prohibits intentional release of 5 or more balloons at one time (mass release) and classifies intentional release of 1-4 balloons as littering under Delaware law.

• Establishes civil penalties: first violation of releasing 1-4 balloons costs minimum $25; mass release first violation costs minimum $250 plus up to 8 hours community service; subsequent violations carry escalating penalties up to $350.

• Exempts scientific/meteorological balloons, hot air balloons that are recovered, indoor balloons, water balloons recovered after recreational use, and unintentionally released balloons from penalties.

• Requires retail and wholesale balloon sellers to post notices informing customers that intentional balloon release violates Delaware law and is subject to penalties.

• Delays enforcement for individuals until May 1, 2022, while non-individual entities (organizations) face immediate penalties upon enactment; modifies state litter control law intent to protect fish, birds, and other animals alongside citizens.