Lawmakers Propose Ban on Nitrous Oxide Retail Sales
New legislation aims to restrict public access to nitrous oxide amid a significant rise in misuse-related deaths.
Updated on Oct. 23, 2026 in Legislative Policy
Senator Christopher Ryan and Assemblymember John McDonald have introduced legislation to prohibit the retail sale of nitrous oxide in New York. Named Nima's Law, the bill seeks to curb inhalant misuse through civil penalties for businesses and a new public education program.
Why it matters
The legislation addresses the growing health risks and fatalities associated with nitrous oxide as a hallucinogenic inhalant. It aims to reduce widespread public access while preserving the chemical for professional use.
The bill, designated as S.9567B and A.10923, mandates an education and outreach program regarding the dangers of nitrous oxide. It follows a 500% increase in misuse-related deaths from 2010 to 2023, though the exact civil fine structure remains pending.
The players
Christopher Ryan
He is a New York State Senator who is co-sponsoring the legislation to restrict nitrous oxide sales.
John McDonald
He is a New York State Assemblymember who is leading the effort to advance the bill in the state legislature.
Nima Pazooki
He was a resident of Jericho, Nassau County, in whose honor the proposed legislation is named.
The details
The bill, known as Nima's Law in memory of Nima Pazooki, targets the retail market while allowing for continued professional applications of the gas. Legislators hope the measure will successfully pass in the 2027 session after failing to clear the Assembly in 2026.
Timeline
Nitrous oxide misuse deaths increased by over 500% between 2010 and 2023.
The legislation passed the State Senate during the 2026 session.
Legislators highlighted the bill at the State Capitol on October 23, 2026.
Lawmakers plan to advance the legislation during the 2027 legislative session.
Political Context
Nima's Law represents a significant shift toward state-level regulation of substances previously accessible at the retail level. Opposition may focus on the potential economic impact on businesses and the challenge of balancing professional access with public safety restrictions.
If passed, the law will restrict the ability of local retailers to sell nitrous oxide products to the general public. Business owners may face new civil penalties for non-compliance, while the state will launch new outreach efforts to inform residents about these risks.
The takeaway
Nima's Law highlights the legislative response to rising inhalant-related fatalities. Residents concerned about substance safety can follow the progress of this bill as it moves through the upcoming 2027 session.
What happens next
Legislators are preparing to advance the bill for consideration during the 2027 legislative session.
Further reading
For more information on state proposals, visit the Legislative Policy section.
