Signed by Governor Kevin Stitt

Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to amend and pass a bill that prohibits the use of nitrous oxide or other similar drugs for the purpose of intoxication in Oklahoma.

Highlights:

• Defines “nitrous oxide” as N20, dinitrogen monoxide, dinitrogen oxide, nitrogen oxide, or laughing gas (Sec. 2).

• Prohibits the inhalation, ingestion, or possession of nitrous oxide with intent to induce intoxication which distorts auditory, visual, or mental processes (Sec. 2).

• Prohibits the inhalation, ingestion, possession, purchase, sale, or otherwise transfer of nitrous oxide for inducing or aiding someone else’s intoxication (Sec. 2).

• Classifies a violation of these prohibitions, or the distribution or possession of more than 16 grams of nitrous oxide, as a misdemeanor with imprisonment up to 90 days, a fine of up to $5,000, or both (Sec. 2).

• Classifies the sale or offering of drug paraphernalia designed for inhaling nitrous oxide for recreational purposes by anyone 21 years of age or older to someone less than 18 years of age as a misdemeanor punishable by imprisonment of up to one year, a fine of up to $7,500, or both (Sec. 2).

• Requires the suspension of business licenses for those found knowingly violating this section after a previous conviction for such a violation (Sec. 2).

• Exempts businesses found to have demonstrated good-faith attempts to prevent illegal sales or deliveries by their employees from business license suspension (Sec. 2).

• Exempts any licensed practitioner who administers nitrous oxide in providing medical or dental care from this Act’s provisions (Sec. 2).

• Exempts food products that contain nitrous oxide as a propellant from this Act’s provisions (Sec. 2).

• Exempts the sale, use, or possession of nitrous oxide containing sulfur dioxide for automotive purposes from this Act’s provisions (Sec. 2).

• Exempts the sale, use, or possession of nitrous oxide in manufacturing or industrial application from this Act’s provisions (Sec. 2).

• Exempts nitrous oxide cartridges or whipped cream “chargers” purchased from commercial restaurant supply companies or vendors by commercial restaurants and bakeries from this Act’s provisions (Sec. 2).

Full Bill Text