Minnesota 2023-2024 Regular Session

Minnesota Senate Bill SF3972

Introduced
2/19/24  
Refer
2/19/24  
Refer
3/7/24  

Caption

Aerosol dusters containing 1, 1-difluoroethane sales restrictions establishment

Impact

If enacted, SF3972 will significantly alter existing state laws related to the sale of aerosol products. The bill not only restricts the purchasing limits to three cans per transaction but also requires specific labeling that warns consumers of the potential fatal consequences of inhalant abuse. This change is expected to have immediate effects on retailers, who must comply with these new regulations or face legal penalties, thus enhancing public safety and preventing health crises associated with substance abuse.

Summary

SF3972 establishes new sales restrictions on aerosol dusters containing 1,1-difluoroethane (DFE) in Minnesota. This bill mandates that retailers sell these products only in limited quantities from behind-the-counter and only to individuals who can verify they are at least 21 years old. The intent is to reduce inhalant abuse, particularly among younger populations who may misuse aerosol dusters for their psychoactive effects. Additionally, the bill dispenses labeling requirements that emphasize the dangers associated with abuse and misuse of these products to raise consumer awareness and discourage irresponsible usage.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SF3972 is generally positive among public health advocates, who see it as a proactive measure to combat the rising concerns of inhalant abuse. However, some retailers express apprehension about the financial impacts and logistical challenges posed by the proposed regulations. The discussion reflects a broader concern about substance misuse and the responsibility of retail environments in preventing access to harmful products, especially among minors.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding SF3972 include the balance between consumer access to necessary cleaning products and the imperative to protect vulnerable populations from misuse. Critics argue that while the bill's intent is commendable, the enforcement of such sales restrictions could inadvertently lead to inconvenience for responsible adult consumers. The debate also highlights the challenges faced in implementing legislative measures aimed at behavioral issues, wherein proponents call for action to prevent potential abuse and opponents caution against over-regulation that may adversely affect legitimate sales.

Companion Bills

MN HF3539

Similar To Aerosol dusters containing 1,1-difluoroethane sales restrictions established; and criminal penalties imposed.

Previously Filed As

MN HF3539

Aerosol dusters containing 1,1-difluoroethane sales restrictions established; and criminal penalties imposed.

MN SB1032

Relating to aerosol dusters that contain 1,1-Difluoroethane.

MN SB2195

The classification of difluoroethane as a volatile chemical; and to provide a penalty.

MN HF4077

Consumer protection, monetary and financial institutions policy, insurance, and telecommunications provisions added, modified, or eliminated; on-sale liquor licenses modified and authorized; technical changes made; reports required; and penalties established.

MN HB1509

Nicotine vapor products; restrictions on sale of products containing liquid nicotine/hemp products.

MN SF4097

Omnibus Commerce policy bill

MN SF825

Office of Cannabis Management establishment; cannabis regulation authorization

MN SF4957

Office of Cannabis Management establishment of limits on the total THC in cannabis flower and cannabis products requirement; ingredients addition to impart a taste of smell to cannabis products intended to be consumed through the inhalation of smoke, vapor, or aerosol prohibition; warnings about cannabis consumption to include warnings regarding cancer requirement; advertisements that promote the co-consumption of alcohol and cannabis prohibition

MN HF4871

Office of Cannabis Management required to establish limits on total THC in cannabis flower and cannabis products; addition of ingredients to impart taste or smell to cannabis products intended to be consumed through inhalation of smoke, vapor, or aerosol prohibited; warnings regarding cannabis consumption resulting in cancer required, and advertisements prohibited.

MN SF2892

Product stewardship program for wind and solar infrastructure; fee on retail sales of wind and solar infrastructure establishment; moratorium on disposal of wind and solar energy infrastructure in landfills establishment; appropriating money

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.