Senator Weaver Secures Senate Approval for Maddix Bias Act

OKLAHOMA CITY – Senator Darrell Weaver, R-Moore, secured unanimous Senate approval Wednesday for legislation making it unlawful for any person to inhale, ingest, possess, buy or sell nitrous oxide.

Known as the Maddix Bias Act, House Bill 1933 is named after an 18-year-old Oklahoman who lost his life at the hands of an impaired driver who was under the influence of nitrous oxide.

Weaver, who formerly served as the Director of the Bureau of Narcotics, said nitrous oxide use is becoming increasingly prevalent amongst youth.

“No family should have to suffer the loss of a loved one, especially a child, because of an impaired driver,” Weaver said. “This common-sense measure intends to deter the use and distribution of nitrous oxide to help prevent tragedies like the one that Maddix’s family has faced. I am proud of the Legislature’s unanimous approval of this bill, and if our work saves even one life, then it will have been well worth it.”

Under House Bill 1933, individuals convicted of misdemeanor offenses involving nitrous oxide use or possession, including unlawful distribution, may face up to 90 days in jail, fines, or both. The bill imposes stricter penalties for those who distribute nitrous oxide to minors, including up to one year imprisonment, higher fines, and possible suspension of business licenses.

The measure offers exceptions for the use of nitrous oxide in medical and dental care, culinary use, and other proper industrial use.

House Bill 1933 now moves to the governor’s desk for final approval.

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For more information, contact: communications@oksenate.gov.