In the near future, I will introduce legislation to ban the sale of nitrous oxide for illegitimate use in Pennsylvania.
  

N2O is a chemical compound used for a variety of common medical, culinary, and industrial uses. It is known as “laughing gas,” used as a mild sedative agent to manage pain and anxiety during dental procedures.
  

N2O is also misused and abused as a recreational drug, called “whippits.” Historically, seen being consumed in balloons outside concerts and music venues, it gives users a brief euphoric high as it impacts the central nervous system, decreasing oxygen in the lungs while simultaneously depleting carbon dioxide in tissues. Because N2O has many legitimate uses, including food processing, it remains readily and widely available.  

Recently, N2O has exploded in popularity and is easily and legally accessible for purchase at gas stations, smoke shops, Walmart, or Amazon. Recreational N2O companies like Galaxy Gas have maximized sales with heavy marketing. N2O now is a common recreational drug used on podcasts, on streaming channels, in music, and even in video games like Roblox. It is the third-most popular recreational drug among youth today.
 

However, N2O inhalation and abuse can result in a long list of medical complications, like asphyxiation, blood clots, palpitations, psychiatric disturbances, prolonged neurological effects, or even death. It can also be addictive as some users develop a powerful psychological dependence, consuming dozens of cannisters in rapid succession.
  

There are no federal limits on who can purchase nitrous oxide. In Pennsylvania, inhaling, possessing, or selling N2O for the purpose of intoxication is a third-degree misdemeanor. Clearly, that is not enough to protect public safety. 
 

My bill would restrict the retail sale of nitrous oxide (N2O) to prevent its illicit recreational use while preserving access for legitimate and lawful purposes. The legislation would prohibit the retail sale of N2O unless the sale is directly associated with a licensed medical or dental practice, bona fide commercial culinary use, or use within the technology, automotive, or chemical industries. 

Next, it bans the sale of flavored varieties of N2O, which are generally considered to have no legitimate practical application. 

Finally, it requires retailers to sign an affirmation that each N2O purchase is intended for legal, health, or food preparation purposes – not recreational. The Department of Health will be directed to create a real-time online portal to track N2O sales and prevent abuse.