South Carolina bans ‘laughing gas’ sales to minors under new nitrous oxide law

COLUMBIA, SC (WMBF) – South Carolina is cracking down on nitrous oxide, banning its sale to minors and setting criminal penalties for violations.

The new law (S. 751), which Gov. Henry McMaster signed on May 18, prohibits the sale of nitrous oxide and nitrous oxide products to anyone under 18, and retailers must require identification to verify customers’ ages.

Retailers are also prohibited from selling flavored nitrous oxide products or marketing nitrous oxide for recreational use. Tobacco retailers are banned from selling nitrous oxide products entirely.

The law aims to prevent the recreational misuse of nitrous oxide.

Nitrous oxide is a colorless gas with several legitimate uses, such as medical applications as laughing gas, pressurizing whipped cream canisters, and boosting automotive engine performance, all of which remain legal under the new law.

However, when used recreationally, it can cause a brief euphoric and dissociative effect and is sometimes abused through small cartridges originally designed for whipped cream dispensers.

Prolonged or heavy use can cause oxygen deprivation, nerve damage (B12 depletion) and, in extreme cases, death.

Since McMaster signed the bill, the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division has begun implementing inspections and enforcement actions.

Penalties for violations

Illegal possession or distribution of nitrous oxide is now a misdemeanor.

• First offense: A fine up to $1,000 and/or imprisonment up to six months
• Second offense: A fine up to $5,000 and/or up to one year in prison
• Subsequent offenses: A fine up to $10,000 and/or three years in prison

Businesses violating the law may also face administrative penalties, including suspension or revocation of licenses or permits.

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