OCEAN CITY — For the second time in as many years, a bill introduced in the General Assembly by Delegate Wayne Hartman (R-38C) prohibiting the celebratory release of plastic and mylar balloons breezed through its House committee.
Hartman’s House Bill 391 would prohibit an individual, association, partnership, corporation, non-profit organization or any other group from knowingly and intentionally releasing a balloon into the atmosphere. The intent of the legislation is to prohibit the intentional release of balloons at weddings, graduations and other ceremonies, which often end up in the ocean or other waterways can cause damage or even death to marine life.
Hartman introduced similar legislation last year and it breezed through the House Environment and Transportation Committee and was headed toward passage. When the session was cut short abruptly amid the COVID outbreak, the bill died on the table last year.
Hartman and five co-sponsors in the House brought the legislation back for the 2021 session. It has also been cross-filed in the Senate. On Wednesday, the House Environment and Transportation Committee advanced House Bill 391 with a 20-3 vote.
What we really need is an anti-release law on envelopes stuffed with cash. Who really gives a * about balloons.
Do it, get it over with.
What a complete waste of time.
Poor economy, businesses closing, high unemployment, homelessness, etc., and Maryland politicians are spending their time worrying about people releasing balloons and using plastic bags. Very sad state of affairs when these are their priorities.
Biden will sign it !!! He signs anything Harris tells him to !!!! She is always behind him & close-by !!!