The law includes exceptions for accidental releases, indoor releases, and balloons made from biodegradable materials.
LOUISIANA, USA — A new Louisiana law will make intentional outdoor balloon releases illegal beginning Aug. 1, a move supporters say will help protect wildlife and reduce litter across the state.
Governor Jeff Landry recently signed House Bill 851, now known as Act 196, which places intentional balloon releases under Louisiana’s littering statute.
The law was authored by State Representative John Illg, who said the legislation was driven by concerns about what happens after balloons are released during celebrations and memorials.
“We’re always trying to keep Louisiana beautiful,” Illg said. “I know people do these in a celebratory way, but they don’t think it’s doing any damage.”
Illg said released balloons often end up in waterways, wetlands, and grass areas, where wildlife and livestock can mistake balloon fragments for food.
Under the law, intentionally releasing a balloon outdoors is prohibited. It also prohibits organizing an event that includes a planned release of 12 or more balloons. The law includes exceptions for accidental releases, indoor releases, and balloons made from biodegradable materials. It also exempts certain scientific and meteorological uses.
The legislation follows concerns raised last year by Gov. Landry, who questioned how a similar proposal would be enforced.
Illg said lawmakers addressed those concerns by expanding the number of officials authorized to issue citations, including some park personnel.
“Last year we passed LXGR, which enables more people, including park rangers, to be able to do it,” Illg said.
The law has sparked discussion among some community members who view balloon releases as an important part of memorial traditions.
Michael Willis, who helps families organize memorial balloon releases through the organization Help Other People Endure, said he does not believe the practice will disappear overnight.
“I’m 50 something, and we been doing this so long,” Willis said. “Y’all might get more police reports — I don’t think they can change that culture.”
The law follows New Orleans’ adoption of its own ordinance in 2024 targeting Mylar balloon releases.
Unlike the new state law, the city’s ordinance was largely driven by public safety concerns after Mylar balloons repeatedly came into contact with electrical equipment, causing power outages in parts of the city.
New Orleans City Councilmember Eugene Green said the ordinance has produced measurable results.
“Literally numbers,” Green said when asked how the city tracked its success. “I’ve been a recipient of many emails saying power was out in a particular place because of a balloon release.”
Green said those reports became less frequent over time and applauded the state’s effort to address the issue on a broader scale.
Supporters of the new law argue it will reduce litter and protect Louisiana’s environment, while critics question whether enforcement efforts will ultimately change a tradition long used to honor loved ones.
The law takes effect Aug. 1.
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