Bill > SB666

This bill modifies existing Texas law regarding the sale and possession of nitrous oxide by raising the age restriction from 18 to 21 years old. Specifically, the bill amends the Health and Safety Code to make it unlawful to sell or deliver nitrous oxide to individuals under 21, with violations considered a state jail felony. The legislation introduces new provisions that differentiate nitrous oxide from other abusable volatile chemicals, creating separate legal standards. Business establishments will now be required to display signs indicating it is illegal to sell nitrous oxide to people under 21. The bill provides some affirmative defenses to prosecution, such as when nitrous oxide is being used for a lawful commercial purpose or when a person presents a valid identification showing they are 21 or older. These changes will take effect on September 1, 2025, and will only apply to offenses committed on or after that date. The bill aims to restrict access to nitrous oxide for potential recreational misuse, particularly among younger individuals, by increasing the age of legal purchase and possession.

Government Affairs

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB666