Germany Proposes Swift Ban on Nitrous Oxide for Youth

Health Minister Lauterbach aims to curb the use of nitrous oxide and other substances among young people with new legislation.

The proposed legislation targets nitrous oxide, commonly used as a party drug, and aims to restrict its availability to minors.
The draft law includes a ban on the sale of nitrous oxide through vending machines and online platforms to end consumers.
Additional substances like Gammabutyrolacton and 1,4-Butandiol, used as date-rape drugs, are also targeted for restrictions.
The EU Commission has approved the plans, enabling swift legislative action before the upcoming elections.
Exceptions to the ban include industrial, scientific, and medicinal uses, as well as products with low misuse potential, like whipped cream dispensers.