HI SB347

Prohibits any person or entity from intentionally releasing balloons inflated with lighter-than-air gas, citing dangers to wildlife and marine animals that may ingest or become entangled in balloons and strings.

Creates three exemptions: balloons released for scientific or meteorological purposes by governmental agencies or under governmental contract, hot air balloons that are recovered after launching, and balloons that remain indoors.

Establishes a civil penalty of no more than $500 per violation, with multiple balloons released at one time counted as a single offense.

Takes effect on July 1, 2050.