(AP) — People in Hawaiʻi will no longer be able to intentionally release balloons into the air under legislation aimed at protecting the environment and reducing waste. The bill passed a final reading in the House of Representatives on Thursday and is next headed to Democratic Gov. David Ige. West Hawaii Today reported that the measure would establish the strongest ban on balloon releases in the U.S. People who violate the law would be fined $500 starting Jan. 1, 2023. Hot air balloons and balloons used for scientific purposes by a government entity would be exempt.

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