EPA-BALLOONS Senate SponsorsSen. Adriane Johnson and Mike Simmons-Mary Edly-Allen 1/7/2025SenateSession Sine Die 415 ILCS 5/42from Ch. 111 1/2, par. 1042415 ILCS 5/52.15 newAmends the Environmental Protection Act. Provides that no person or organization shall organize a gathering that causes the release of balloons into the air unless the balloons are (1) used by an institution of higher education or a governmental agency, or pursuant to a governmental contract, for bona fide scientific or meteorological purposes, (2) released indoors and remain indoors, or (3) are helium balloons used for the safe operation of a hot air balloon. Provides that persons who violate the amendatory Act's provisions shall be subject to civil penalties in specified amounts and that the release of 50 balloons or fewer at one time is a single offense. Effective January 1, 2024. 2/9/2023SenateFiled with Secretary by Sen. Adriane Johnson 2/9/2023SenateFirst Reading 2/9/2023SenateReferred to Assignments 2/21/2023SenateAdded as Co-Sponsor Sen. Mike Simmons 2/7/2024SenateAdded as Chief Co-Sponsor Sen. Mary Edly-Allen 1/7/2025SenateSession Sine Die