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SB 78

Crimes and offenses, possession, use, or sale of "whippets," "laughing gas," "poppers," and "snappers" prohibited in certain circumstances, criminal penalties provided

2025 Regular Session Introduced by April Weaver

Alabama criminalizes possession and sale of inhalant drugs (nitrous oxide, alkyl nitrites) with criminal penalties, effective immediately upon governor's signature.

Enacted
#controlledsubstances
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Bill Summary · SB 78

Legislative bill overview

SB 78 criminalizes the possession, use, and sale of inhalant drugs commonly known as "whippets," "laughing gas," "poppers," and "snappers" in Alabama. The bill establishes criminal penalties for violations, with enhanced penalties likely for distribution or sale compared to simple possession.

Why is this important

Inhalant abuse, particularly nitrous oxide and alkyl nitrites, poses documented public health risks including neurological damage, respiratory issues, and addiction potential. This legislation represents Alabama's attempt to address a growing substance abuse trend by treating these previously legal or loosely regulated substances as criminal contraband, similar to other states' responses to emerging drug trends.

Potential points of contention

  • Legitimate uses affected: Nitrous oxide has legal industrial, medical, and culinary applications (whipped cream dispensers), creating enforcement challenges and potential impact on lawful commerce
  • Criminalization approach: Critics may argue this criminalizes users rather than addressing underlying addiction through treatment and prevention, while supporters contend it removes accessibility for recreational abuse
  • Definitional clarity: Terms like "whippets," "poppers," and "snappers" are street slang; the bill's actual statutory definitions will determine whether enforcement is clear or susceptible to legal challenges

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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