Section 597.NEW - [Newly enacted section not yet numbered] [Legislative findings and declarations]The Legislature hereby finds and declares that:
1. Electric utilities in this State are responsible for delivering safe, reliable energy through large transmission and distribution networks. Equipment failure or damage from weather, animals and human activity can cause power outages.2. Electric utilities report that foil balloons are among the top causes of outages. Foil balloons are coated with a shiny metallic film that conducts electricity. If a foil balloon contacts power lines, this can create an electrical fault that can damage power lines, cause blackouts and start fires.3. Because of the risk of power outages and fires caused by foil balloons coming into contact with power lines, other states and jurisdictions have considered bans on foil balloons.4. Modern technology has advanced to allow for the manufacturing of foil balloons that resist conducting electricity. The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers is developing standards for such balloons.5. Requiring foil balloons to be tested and to meet performance standards concerning their dielectric performance will minimize the risks of power outages and fires.Added by 2023, Ch. 483,§2, eff. 10/1/2023.