Louisiana takes first step in becoming first state to ban nitrous oxide sales
BATON ROUGE, La. (WVUE) - In response to growing concerns over the abuse of nitrous oxide, highlighted in a series of Fox 8 reports, Louisiana lawmakers took decisive action Thursday to address the issue.
The Criminal Justice Committee unanimously passed legislation aimed at banning the sale of the potentially deadly party drug statewide.
Lawmakers were stunned to learn that nitrous oxide was readily available in unlimited quantities, often sold at gas stations and smoke shops across the state.
- Woman finds fiancé dead, hooked up to nitrous tank
- Driver’s nitrous oxide abuse blamed for woman’s death
- Former addicts crippled by nitrous oxide crisis, call for lawmaker action
- Nitrous oxide abuse chokes with colorful and dangerous highs
The revelation prompted an impassioned plea from family members who have been directly impacted by the harmful effects of nitrous oxide abuse.
Rep. Joe Stangi, who co-authored the bill along with Rep. Debbie Villio, says the passage is just the first step in addressing the issue.
Stagni says if passed, the bill will send a clear message to the nitrous oxide industry that profiting from substance abuse will not be tolerated in Louisiana.
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