SB 879 Pennsylvania Senate · 2025-2026 Regular Session

An Act amending Title 34 (Game) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, in game or wildlife protection, providing for unlawful release of certain balloons.

SB 879 makes it unlawful in Pennsylvania to release helium-filled balloons (non-biodegradable or non-photodegradable) that could harm wildlife, livestock, or pets, directly affecting event organizers, businesses, and individuals who release such balloons. Exceptions include educational/research releases by institutions, hot air balloons recovered after launch, religious ceremonies with permits, and biodegradable balloons. Violators face a $5 civil penalty per balloon paid into the Game Fund, and the state must post notices online and install weather-resistant signs at state park/forest entrances. The law aims to protect wildlife from balloon hazards while allowing specific permitted uses.
Bill status in committee 1 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Jun 2025
Committee Review
Floor Vote
Governor
Introduced Jun 24, 2025 Last action Jun 24, 2025
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Total actions
1
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0
Committee
1
Jun 24, 2025
Committee
Referred to Game & Fisheries
upper
1 primary · 9 co-sponsors

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