Releasing balloons could become illegal under new Florida bill. Here's what to know.

A new bill could make releasing balloons illegal.

According to Senate Bill 602 c1, any balloon, whether or not it is biodegradable, would be prohibited from being released.

The bill, which was filed on Jan. 10, states that intentionally releasing, or organizing a release of balloons is prohibited and is considered to be a form of “littering” and “dumping.”

Anyone who is caught illegally releasing balloons will be fined $150 in a civil penalty.

However, there are exceptions.

Balloons that are released on behalf of a governmental agency for scientific or meteorological purposes, balloons released indoors, and hot air balloons recovered after launching will be permitted.

There was a previous version of the bill would also permit biodegradable or photodegradable balloons to be released, but that portion was revised.

According to a business impact estimate, in Miami Beach, an ordinance was passed Wednesday that prohibits balloons at "public marinas, marine facilities, parks and beaches."

Under the ordinance, first-time violators would pay a civil fine of $100 for each balloon, up to a maximum total fine of $1000.

That fine would increase to $250 a balloon for the second violation and to $500 for third-time violators.

For any subsequent violations, that fine would increase to a whopping $1000 a balloon, up to a maximum total fine of $5000.

If passed, Senate Bill 602 c1 would go into effect on July 1.