TO: BOARD OF SUPERVISORS
FROM: Supervisor Cline and Public Health
MEETING DATE: September 23, 2025
DEPARTMENT CONTACT:
Supervisor Cline
PHONE:
707-463-4221
DEPARTMENT CONTACT:
Jenine Miller
PHONE:
707-472-2600
ITEM TYPE: Regular Agenda
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 inhalan...
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