The releasing of Mylar balloons during events is prohibited, according to a vote by the New Orleans City Council. The goal of the decision is to stop these balloons from causing power outages and infrastructure disruptions. According to WGNO, the vote was held on Thursday and was unanimous.
Since they contribute to power outages, the city has taken action to outlaw electrically conductive Mylar balloons. A boil water notice and a broad outage were issued in August after a Mylar balloon collided with electricity lines. Foil balloons that contain lighter-than-air gasses are the subject of the prohibition. “We are trying to make sure people are thoughtful and careful,” council member Joe Giarrusso clarified, as reported by NOLA.
Although it is now unlawful to release these balloons, it is still permissible to carry and use them at private events. “You can hold the balloons,” said Council member Eugene Green, outlining the limitations. You are welcome to bring them inside. It may leave a lasting impression. This is just in relation to these balloons being released. According to NOLA, anyone caught releasing Mylar balloons might be fined up to $1,000.
The New Orleans City Council’s new balloon ban is more about raising public awareness than it is about punishing people. To educate locals about the new regulations and the hazards balloon use poses to the environment and infrastructure, signs will be erected in public areas such as parks and cemeteries. “The council will continue to protect the city’s infrastructure and environment and will work with the City to post signage throughout public outdoor spaces,” the City Council stated in a statement that WWL-TV was able to receive. With California outlawing the production of Mylar balloons in 2022, this action is a part of a larger trend in which governments and localities are controlling balloon use to safeguard the environment. Mayor LaToya Cantrell’s signature is required for the prohibition in New Orleans to become a law.
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