Larry Klein
Mayor
Richard Mehlinger
Vice Mayor
Alysa Cisneros
Councilmember
Murali Srinivasan
Councilmember
Linda Sell
Councilmember
Charlsie Chang
Councilmember
Eileen Le
Councilmember
September 15, 2026
T
he Honorable Gavin Newsom
Governor of California
1021 O Street, Suite 9000
Sacramento, CA 95814
R
E: Senate Bill 936 (Blakespear): Nitrous Oxide: Sales – REQUEST FOR
SIGNATURE
D
ear Governor Newsom,
O
n behalf of the City of Sunnyvale, we respectfully request that you sign SB 936 into law. SB 936 takes meaningful steps to address the growing public health and environmental risks associated with the misuse of nitrous oxide by 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 marketed with flavors and branding that appeal to younger users, with flavors like cherry, bomb pop, and vanilla. 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 commitment to protecting public health, neighborhood quality, and community character. The City advanced local regulations addressing nitrous oxide sales and distribution due to health, safety, litter, and other community impacts associated with recreational misuse. These actions align with General Plan Goal LT -4, Policies LT -4.1 and LT -4.1a, and Policy LT -6.2. Sunnyvale also recognized that existing state law does not provide sufficient safeguards, supporting stronger statewide protections while preserving legitimate uses.
F
or 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 Attachment 14
The Honorable Gavin Newsom, Governor
September 15, 2026
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.
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. For these reasons, the City of Sunnyvale respectfully requests that you sign SB 936 into law.
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
City Council
Tim Kirby, City Manager
Rebecca Moon, City Attorney
Sarah Johnson-Rios, Assistant City Manager
Attachment 14