Oregon limits nitrous oxide access amid misuse concerns under House Bill 3447

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) - A new Oregon law now requires retailers to verify ID and prohibits sales of nitrous oxide to anyone under 18, in response to growing concerns about recreational misuse of the gas among young people.

House Bill 3447 took effect this month, aiming to curb access to small canisters of nitrous oxide, sometimes called “whippets," that have become popular as an inhalant.

The gas is commonly used in medical settings, aerosol products, and whipped cream dispensers.

It’s also sold in some Oregon convenience stores, sometimes in colorful, flavored packaging. Health officials say that kind of marketing can be especially appealing to younger customers.

"It's a really common tactic for industries to have colorful and appealing and youth friendly looking products similar to, you know, vape cartridges," said Jess Neuwirth, the Deschutes County supervisor of the Substance Misuse & Problem Gambling Prevention Program.

Misuse of nitrous oxide can lead to serious and potentially long-term health effects.

“Repeated use can lead to neurological symptoms like numbness, tingling, and weakness. Even permanent brain and nerve injury,” Neuwirth said. “Cardiovascular issues can include blood clots, heart attacks, and cardiac arrest. Often, treatment involves high doses of vitamin B-12, because use depletes it in the body.”

According to the Oregon Health Authority, at least 30 deaths statewide have been linked to nitrous oxide between 2021 and 2024.

While misuse in Deschutes County isn’t considered widespread, officials still view it as a growing concern. A recent retailer scan found only about 7% of stores in the county carried the canisters.

The new bill aims to limit youth access by requiring a valid ID and prohibiting sales to anyone under 18.

Health authorities say the new restrictions are an important step toward preventing misuse and saving lives.