NEW SHOREHAM, R.I. – Town officials have voted to ban all balloons from Block Island.
The New Shoreham Town Council voted unanimously Tuesday to eliminate the sale, distribution and use of all balloons. WPRI-TV reports the ban goes into effect next Monday.
Police will enforce the ordinance. Violators face a fine of up to $200.
New Shoreham’s ban on balloons is intended to protect Block Island’s beaches and wildlife.
The ban is designed to help protect the environment.
The balloon ban came after discarded balloons – none of which are biodegradable – became an issue to the community and the surrounding ecosystem.
Balloons are considered a hazard to wildlife and part of a broader problem with plastic litter.
Block Island is located about 13 miles south of the state’s mainland and has a population of about 1,000.
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