Bill > SB98

This bill increases penalties and restrictions for the retail sale and possession of nitrous oxide (commonly known as "laughing gas"), primarily focusing on limiting access to the substance for recreational use. The legislation amends existing law to establish that only individuals 21 years and older can possess or use nitrous oxide under specific circumstances, such as medical treatment, industrial manufacturing, food preparation, or automotive purposes. The bill introduces more stringent penalties for violations, including fines up to $25,000 and potential imprisonment for those selling or transferring nitrous oxide improperly. Additionally, businesses with alcohol and tobacco control permits face potential license suspension (30 days for first violation) or revocation (for second violation) if they violate these new regulations. The bill also creates a rebuttable presumption against exemptions if a substance contains additional flavoring or has flavoring-related labeling. The legislation empowers the office of alcohol and tobacco control to investigate and enforce these new provisions, with the underlying goal of reducing recreational misuse of nitrous oxide, which can be dangerous when inhaled outside of approved contexts.

Justice

https://www.legis.la.gov/legis/BillInfo.aspx?s=25rs&b=SB98&sbi=y