Proposed amendments to Title 9 of the Riverside Municipal Code prohibiting sale and distribution of Nitrous Oxide in the City of Riverside (20-minute presentation) Charles Payne, Deputy Chief of Police

Summary

The City Council is considering an ordinance to prohibit the sale and distribution of Nitrous Oxide (NOS) within the City of Riverside. This proposal stems from increasing concerns over the recreational misuse of NOS, commonly known as "laughing gas," which poses significant public health and safety risks. The Riverside Police Department has documented widespread unlawful sales of NOS products at smoke shops, with many retailers failing to comply with existing state regulations regarding record-keeping and sales to minors. The ordinance aims to close existing loopholes by banning sales except for legitimate medical, dental, industrial, or food production purposes. It also amends the Municipal Code to prohibit NOS sales at tobacco retail establishments and includes penalties for violations, including fines of up to $1,000 or imprisonment, and potential revocation of tobacco retail permits. The ordinance also addresses kratom sales, prohibiting them in the city and amending regulations for tobacco retailers to include kratom sales as a violation.

Citizen Impact

This ordinance will prohibit the sale of nitrous oxide for recreational purposes in Riverside, aiming to reduce its misuse and associated health risks. Residents will see fewer sales of "laughing gas" at local smoke shops, with potential penalties for businesses that violate the new regulations.

Confidence

high