EPA-BALLOONS Senate SponsorsSen. Laura M. Murphy 1/13/2026SenateReferred to Assignments 415 ILCS 5/42from Ch. 111 1/2, par. 1042415 ILCS 5/52.15 newAmends the Environmental Protection Act. Provides that no person shall release or cause or organize the release of helium or lighter-than-air gas 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) used for the safe operation of a hot air balloon. Provides that persons who violate the amendatory Act's provisions shall be subject to a warning for a first violation, a civil penalty of $500 for a second violation, and a civil penalty of up to $1,000 for a third or subsequent violation, and that the release of 50 balloons or fewer at one time is a single offense. 1/13/2026SenateFiled with Secretary by Sen. Laura M. Murphy 1/13/2026SenateFirst Reading 1/13/2026SenateReferred to Assignments