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Bill to ban retail sales of nitrous oxide passes subcommittee with penalties
Summary
The subcommittee adopted an amendment and sent HB 16‑44 — which would prohibit retail sales of nitrous oxide at convenience stores, vape shops and similar outlets and impose civil penalties and possible felony charges for knowing distribution for intoxication — to full judiciary.
Representative Ashley explained an amendment attached to HB 16‑44 to ban retail sales of nitrous oxide at convenience stores, vape shops, gas stations and similar retailers. The amendment would create civil penalties for initial and subsequent violations (first violation $2,500 plus seizure; subsequent violation $5,000 plus seizure and possible revocation of retail licenses) and makes knowing sale to someone who will use the gas to intoxicate a Class C felony.
The sponsor framed the bill as protecting young people and described cases that prompted the proposal. Members adopted the amendment and voted to send HB 16‑44 as amended to full judiciary; the clerk recorded 8 ayes, 0 nos, and 1 present not voting.
The committee did not discuss detailed enforcement mechanisms beyond penalty levels on the floor; licensing‑revocation language was included in the amendment text described by the sponsor.
