Charleston senator's bill aims to curb 'whip-it' sales

Proposal would ban flavored nitrous oxide products, require stricter storage and verification by retailers

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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A Charleston-area state senator is pushing a bill that would tighten rules on nitrous oxide sales, especially products marketed as 'whip-its' that appeal to teens. The proposal would ban flavored brands, penalize sales to minors, and require stricter storage and verification by retailers. Medical, culinary, and industrial uses would remain legal under new recordkeeping rules.

Why it matters

The use of nitrous oxide, or 'whip-its', has become a growing concern in Charleston and other communities, with reports of teenagers and young adults abusing the inhalant. This legislation aims to crack down on the sale of these products, particularly the flavored varieties that may be attractive to youth, in order to address public health and safety issues.

The details

The bill introduced by the Charleston-area senator would ban the sale of flavored nitrous oxide products, such as the 'Galaxy Gas' brand, that are often marketed towards younger consumers. It would also penalize retailers for selling these products to minors and require stricter storage and verification procedures to ensure proper use. However, the legislation would still allow for the legal medical, culinary, and industrial applications of nitrous oxide under new recordkeeping requirements.

  • The bill is currently under consideration by the state legislature.

The players

Charleston-area state senator

A local lawmaker who has introduced legislation to tighten regulations on the sale of nitrous oxide products, particularly those marketed as 'whip-its'.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

What’s next

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The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.