Background & Purpose
Laughing gas has increasingly been used as a recreational drug, leading to health risks and societal concerns. To stop this harmful trend, stricter rules for how the gas is sold and marketed are needed.
Proposals & Debate
The government proposed a completely new legal framework to control laughing gas. The measures include stopping sales when abuse is suspected, setting a maximum purchase limit for individuals, introducing an age limit, and banning aggressive marketing.
The Decision
The Swedish parliament approved the government's proposal to restrict access to laughing gas. The new legislation takes effect on July 1, 2025.
Does this affect you?
- Young people under 18: Blocked from purchasing laughing gas completely due to the newly introduced age limit.
- Retailers and shop owners: Must follow strict quantity limits and actively deny sales if they suspect the gas is intended for intoxication.
- Consumers of laughing gas: Limited to buying a maximum of 18 grams per purchase occasion.
In Practice
- Shops and online retailers are prohibited from selling laughing gas to anyone under 18 years of age.
- Private individuals are restricted from buying more than 18 grams of laughing gas per purchase occasion.
- Sellers must refuse a sale if there is clear reason to suspect that the gas will be used as a drug or intoxicant.
- Marketing of laughing gas that violates the new regulations is strictly forbidden.