HB59 Alabama 2017 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

Ron Johnson

Republican

Session

Regular Session 2017

Title

Fire safety, sky lanterns, prohibited near public gatherings, penalties

Summary

HB59 would ban sky lanterns in Alabama, making it illegal to possess, sell, or release them near public gatherings and setting criminal penalties.

What This Bill Does

The bill defines a sky lantern as an unmanned, self-contained luminary that uses an open flame for propulsion. It makes it unlawful to possess, sell at retail, offer to sell, distribute, or give away a sky lantern in Alabama. It also prohibits releasing a sky lantern within 500 yards of a public gathering, with public gatherings defined as outdoor events hosting more than 500 people. Violations are criminal offenses under Alabama law with associated penalties.

Who It Affects

• Individuals and retailers in Alabama who would be restricted from possessing, selling, or distributing sky lanterns (penalties apply for violations).
• People who attend or organize outdoor events (public gatherings) in Alabama, since releases near such gatherings would be illegal and enforced.

Key Provisions

• Sky lantern is defined as an unmanned, self-contained luminary device that requires an open flame for propulsion.
• Unlawful to possess, sell at retail, offer to sell at retail, distribute, or give away a sky lantern in the state.
• Releasing a sky lantern within 500 yards of a public gathering is prohibited; a public gathering is more than 500 people outdoors at events such as sports, concerts, festivals, or parades.
• Violations are criminal offenses under Section 13A-5-12 of the Alabama Code.
• Effective date: the act becomes law on the first day of the third month after its passage and approval by the governor.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 24, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.

Subjects

Fire Protection