OKLAHOMA CITY – Legislation to prevent the misuse of nitrous oxide, commonly referred to as laughing gas, has been signed into law.

House Bill 1933, authored by Rep. Danny Sterling, R-Tecumseh, and known as the Maddix Bias Act, makes it a misdemeanor to possess, buy, sell or transfer nitrous oxide for the purpose of intoxication. Violators could face up to 90 days in jail, a fine of up to $5,000, or both.

Sterling said the issue is deeply personal to him, as he served as a school administrator for Maddix’s mother and has known the family for years.

"When the family came to me in October 2024, they wanted to know what we as a Legislature could do to help prevent another tragedy like this from happening," Sterling said. "From that moment on, I knew we needed to take this issue seriously and work toward meaningful change to protect Oklahoma families."

The new law is named in honor of Maddix Bias, a 2023 Tecumseh High School graduate and standout baseball player whose life was tragically cut short in a car crash caused by his boss, who was under the influence of nitrous oxide.

"I am proud the Governor signed this bill into law and recognized the serious dangers these whippets can pose," Sterling said. "Maddix was a great young man, and I hope this effort helps preserve his legacy by raising awareness and helping create safer communities across Oklahoma."

The measure also will increase penalties for possession of larger quantities and for those who sell or provide nitrous oxide to minors, including potential jail time, steeper fines and suspension of business licenses.

HB1933 aligns with national efforts like H.R 7945, the Nitrous Oxide Safety Act of 2026, which aims to curb the sale and misuse of nitrous oxide consumer products while preserving its legitimate applications.

"This is something we had to address, and I am proud of my colleagues for consistently stepping up and doing what is right through unanimous votes throughout the legislative session," Sterling said. "These young people are the future of Oklahoma, and we have a responsibility to protect them. This new law helps do exactly that."

The Maddix Bias Act becomes effective Aug. 14.