A new South Carolina law aimed at curbing the recreational misuse of nitrous oxide is now in effect, according to an announcement made by SLED on Tuesday, June 16.

South Carolina's Nitrous Oxide Regulation bill became a law on May 18 after Gov. Henry McMaster signed the bill. The law gives SLED the authority to inspect businesses and enforce new restrictions on the sale, distribution and marketing of nitrous oxide products.

The agency has begun implementing inspection and enforcement procedures under the new law.

Retailers may not sell, furnish, give, distribute or provide nitrous oxide or products containing it to anyone younger than 18 years old. Businesses must require valid identification to verify the age before purchase.

The law also prohibits the sale of flavored nitrous oxide products and prohibits retailers from selling, marketing or representing nitrous oxide products for recreational inhalation or personal use. Tobacco retail stores whose primary purpose is to sell tobacco products are prohibited from selling nitrous oxide products.

Nitrous oxide, commonly known as laughing gas, is a colorless, non-flammable gas with a sweetish odor and has long been used in medical and dental procedures as a sedative, relieving anxiety and allowing a patient to relax before any work is done.

In recent years, however, health officials and lawmakers have raised concerns about the growing misuse of nitrous oxide as a recreational drug.

In 2025, Forbes reported that many young people began inhaling nitrous oxide, as it produces a short-lived feeling of euphoria, relaxation and lightheadedness. Products marked under names such as "whippets" and "Galaxy Gas", which in 2021 began producing flavored whipped cream chargers and dispensers designed for culinary purposes such as aerating whipped cream, have drawn national attention as recreational use has become more visible on social media.

Galaxy Gas has issued disclaimers warning against inhalation, but many feel the product's colorful packaging and flavors made it appealing to youth.

Inhalation of nitrous oxide can have dangerous effects. According to Poison Control, short-term effects include dizziness, nausea, vomiting and lack of coordination. Repeated use increases the risk of oxygen deprivation, unconsciousness and accidents.

There have been several cases nationwide where teens and adults have been hospitalized as a result of misuse of nitrous oxide.

According to Poison Control, a 16-year-old girl inhaled nitrous oxide gas to get high at a party and collapsed. She was taken to the hospital, where she was monitored for several hours but made a full recovery.

Long-term or frequent use can lead to vitamin B12 deficiency, causing numbness, tingling, weakness and potentially permanent nerve damage. This can also lead to cognitive impairments such as memory loss, difficulty concentrating and speech.

A 28-year-old man with a history of daily nitrous oxide use presented with leg weakness and abnormal sensation in his lower extremities. Further evaluation demonstrated abnormalities of the spinal cord on MRI. He discontinued using the nitrous oxide and was treated with vitamin B12 and underwent physical therapy. He made a complete recovery, Poison Control said.

Severe cases can result in brain damage or death, especially if inhaled improperly or combined with other substances.

Criminal penalties for unlawful possession or distribution of nitrous oxide include a fine of up to $1,000, imprisonment for up to six months or both for a first offense.

A second offense carries penalties of up to a $5,000 fine, imprisonment for up to one year or both. Subsequent offenses can result in fines of up to $10,000 and prison sentences of up to three years.

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

The legislation does not prohibit lawful use of nitrous oxide. Medical, automotive, commercial and industrial uses are exempted under the law and remain legal.