Larry Klein
Mayor
Richard Mehlinger
Vice Mayor
Alysa Cisneros
Councilmember
Murali Srinivasan
Councilmember
Linda Sell
Councilmember
Charlsie Chang
Councilmember
Eileen Le
Councilmember
May 14, 2026
T
he Honorable Catherine Blakespear
California State Senate
1021 O Street, Suite 7720
Sacramento, CA 95814
R
E: Senate Bill 936 (Blakespear): Nitrous oxide: sales – SUPPORT D
ear Senator Blakespear:
O
n behalf of the City of Sunnyvale, I am writing to express our strong support for Senate Bill 936, which takes meaningful steps to address the growing public health and environmental risks associated with the misuse of nitrous oxide providing a clear and targeted solution prohibiting the retail sale of nitrous oxide canisters larger than eight grams, while preserving access for legitimate uses such as medical, dental, culinary, and automotive applications. This approach appropriately balances public safety concerns with the needs of lawful users.
N
itrous oxide misuse has become an increasing concern in communities across California, particularly among youth. Too frequently these products are often marketed with flavors and branding that appeal to younger users with flavors like cherry, bomb pop, vanilla, etc. Moreover, retailers have gone further with names like “Baking Bad” and similar slogans that intentionally blur the line between legitimate culinary use and recreational inhalation contributing to their misuse as recreational inhalants and exposing individuals to serious health risks, including neurological damage, organ damage, and even death. Even incidental misuse can result in severe adverse health effects and long - term harm, all of which underscores the need for stronger safeguards.
T
hese concerns are consistent with Sunnyvale’s longstanding commitment to protecting public health, neighborhood quality, and community character. The City recently advanced local regulations addressing the sale and distribution of nitrous oxide after determining that recreational misuse poses significant health and safety risks, particularly for youth, and contributes to litter and other community impacts. These actions align with General Plan Goal LT-4 to preserve an attractive community, Policy LT-4.1 to maintain neighborhood character and a positive community image, Policy LT -4.1a supporting Attachment 4
The Honorable Catherine Blakespear, State Senate
May 14, 2026
strong code enforcement and beautification efforts, and Policy LT -6.2 limiting incompatible uses near residential neighborhoods. Sunnyvale also recognize s that existing state law has not provided sufficient safeguards to adequately prevent misuse, underscoring the need for stronger statewide protections while preserving legitimate uses.
For localities, the concerns extend even beyond the impacts on public health. Nitrous oxide canisters present growing challenges for local governments responsible for waste management. These canisters impose significant disposal costs on local jurisdictions and contribute to environmental hazards when improperly discarded. By limiting the retail availability of large canisters, SB 936 will help reduce the burden on local solid waste systems and improve environmental outcomes.
Sunnyvale also recognizes that SB 936 builds on successful local and regional efforts.
Counties and cities throughout the state have already taken action to restrict nitrous oxide sales. This bill establishes a consistent statewide framework, rather than a patchwork one, while preserving local authority to adopt stronger protections.
For these reasons, the City of Sunnyvale strongly supports SB 936. This legislation represents a thoughtful and necessary response to a growing public health issue and will help protect our communities, especially young people, while supporting responsible waste management practices.
Thank you for your leadership on this important issue. Please do not hesitate to contact me or Rebecca Moon, City Attorney at [email protected] if you have any questions.
Sincerely,
Larry Klein
Mayor
cc: Senator Dr. Aisha Wahab
Assembly Member Patrick Ahrens
Attachment 4
The Honorable Catherine Blakespear, State Senate
May 14, 2026
City Council
Tim Kirby, City Manager
Rebecca Moon, City Attorney
Sarah Johnson- Rios, Assistant City Manager
Connie Verceles, Assistant City Manager
Attachment 4