Santa Ana officials are considering a new ordinance to ban the sale of nitrous oxide, commonly known as “whippets” or “laughing gas,” for recreational use. During a city council meeting on Tuesday May 7, which will be streamed live on YouTube, council members will discuss the proposed law. This move aligns with efforts by county supervisors and Stanton officials to curb recreational nitrous oxide use.
Councilwoman Jessie Lopez initiated the ordinance after hearing concerns from parents about the drug’s impact on youth. “This isn’t just a party drug. It’s a very dangerous substance,” Lopez said. If passed, the ordinance would involve code enforcement officers monitoring smoke shops and liquor stores to ensure compliance.
Councilman Ben Vazquez emphasized the need for an educational campaign about the dangers of nitrous oxide. He noted that the ordinance aims to prevent easy access to whippets for children. Councilman Johnathan Ryan Hernandez echoed these sentiments, highlighting the importance of protecting families from the health risks associated with the drug.
The proposed ordinance includes exceptions for nitrous oxide used in cars, food products, and medical or dental care. Violations could result in misdemeanor charges. The crackdown comes amid a regional surge in whippet use, partly due to the gas’s affordability and availability, despite existing state laws banning its sale for recreational purposes.
In Los Angeles, similar efforts are underway to address nitrous oxide misuse. The Los Angeles City Council is considering a ban, following Rialto’s 2017 ordinance, which successfully reduced nitrous oxide-related incidents. However, enforcement challenges remain, as the gas is legally sold for culinary and automotive uses.
Shannon Young, an administrator at a substance abuse treatment facility in Tustin, expressed concern over the drug’s impact on recovery efforts. “It really hurts our community,” she said. The popularity of whippets continues to rise, making it a daily battle for those in recovery.
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