Bill > HB1539

This bill creates a new offense in Tennessee law that prohibits knowingly inhaling, ingesting, using, or possessing any compound, liquid, gas, or chemical containing nitrous oxide, also known as "laughing gas," or amyl nitrite, commonly referred to as "poppers" or "snappers." A violation of this prohibition is classified as a Class A misdemeanor, and offenders may be required to attend a drug rehabilitation program as a condition of probation. However, the bill outlines several exceptions to this prohibition, including when nitrous oxide is medically or dentally prescribed, used in manufacturing or industrial operations by individuals aged 21 or older, employed by a manufacturer, used as a propellant in food preparation for restaurants, or used for automotive purposes by individuals aged 21 or older. The presence of flavoring or specific labeling on containers may create a presumption against these exceptions. The bill also makes it an offense for any person or business, including online retailers, to produce, sell, or otherwise transfer nitrous oxide in violation of these provisions, with penalties including the suspension or revocation of business licenses for repeat offenders. This legislation is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.