To: BOARD OF SUPERVISORS
From: Supervisor Cline and Public Health
Meeting Date: September 23, 2025
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Department Contact: |
Supervisor Cline |
Phone: |
707-463-4221 |
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Department Contact: |
Jenine Miller |
Phone: |
707-472-2600 |
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Item Type: Regular Agenda |
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Time Allocated for Item: 15 Minutes |
Agenda Title:
title
Discussion and Possible Action Including Adoption of Resolution Directing Public Health to Address the Illicit Sale, Distribution, and Use of Nitrous Oxide in Mendocino County Through Public Initiatives, and in Developing a Local Ordinance to Further Regulate the Sale of Nitrous Oxide Canisters, Including but not Limited to, Requirements for Age Verification, Point-of-Sale Restrictions, and Retailer Education
(Sponsors: Supervisor Cline and Public Health)
End
Recommended Action/Motion:
recommendation
Adopt Resolution directing Public Health to address the illicit sale, distribution, and use of nitrous oxide in Mendocino County through public education initiatives, and in developing a local ordinance to further regulate the sale of nitrous oxide canisters, including but not limited to, requirements for age verification, point-of-sale restrictions, and retailer education; and authorize the Chair to sign same.
End
Previous Board/Board Committee Actions:
None.
Summary of Request:
Nitrous oxide, commonly used in medical procedures and food preparation, has gained popularity as a recreational inhalant, posing serious health risks such as neurological damage, addiction, and even fatal outcomes. Research published in The Lancet (March 2025) highlights sustained neurological harm in youth as young as 14. Sold in cannisters known as “whip-its,” nitrous oxide is widely available across unincorporated Mendocino County, particularly in smoke shops near schools and recreational areas, making access easy for young people. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) reported whippets as being the most popular recreational inhalant drug. Recognizing the public health concerns, this resolution is being brought forward to the Board of Supervisors identifying nitrous oxide as a critical local issue and initiating research into an ordinance to curb harmful effects.
Alternative Action/Motion:
Do not adopt the Resolution.
Strategic Plan Priority Designation: A Safe and Healthy County
Supervisorial District: All
Vote Requirement: Majority
Supplemental Information Available Online At: n/a
Fiscal Details:
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source of funding: n/a |
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current f/y cost: n/a |
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budget clarification: n/a |
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annual recurring cost: n/a |
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budgeted in current f/y (if no, please describe): N/A |
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revenue agreement: N/A |
AGREEMENT/RESOLUTION/ORDINANCE APPROVED BY COUNTY COUNSEL: Yes
CEO Liaison: Executive Office
CEO Review: Yes
CEO Comments:
FOR COB USE ONLY
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Executed By: Deputy Clerk |
Final Status: Item Status |
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Date: Date Executed |
Executed Item Type: item |
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Number: |
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