The Senate has once again voted to ban the sale of nitrous oxide to private individuals.

Faced with the surge in accidents linked to nitrous oxide, the Senate has once again taken a tougher stance. This Monday, as part of the "RIPOST" bill aimed at strengthening responses to public order disturbances, senators adopted a specific offense for inhaling nitrous oxide, as well as a general ban on its sale to private individuals. This latter measure, passed despite government opposition, reiterates a provision already approved by the upper house last February in a bill introduced by the Socialist Party. According to figures presented in the Senate, more than 450 serious road accidents linked to the use of this product were recorded in 2025, a forty-fold increase in just six years.

Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez expressed reservations, fearing a breach of European regulations on the free movement of goods. Several senators, however, pointed out the contradiction of wanting to create a criminal offense for inhaling a product whose sale would remain authorized to adults. "A total ban appears to us to be entirely proportionate to the risk," declared the rapporteur, Lauriane Josende (LR), dismissing the executive's objections.

Three new offenses and doubled fines

The adopted text penalizes driving under the influence of nitrous oxide with a sentence of up to two years in prison and a fine of €7,500. Illegal transport is punishable by three years' imprisonment and a fine of €9,000. Legitimate professionals, such as pastry chefs or medical practitioners, will retain a right to purchase nitrous oxide, regulated by decree, which will specify authorized distribution channels and guarantee the traceability of batches.

The RIPOST bill, which also targets rave parties, street racing, and fireworks, must now continue its legislative journey through the National Assembly, although no date has yet been set for its inclusion on the agenda, in a parliamentary calendar already packed before the summer recess. Preventive measures will also be introduced directly into the Education Code to raise awareness among middle and high school students about the risks associated with inhaling this gas.