Restrictions Placed on Abused Inhalants
Spray paint, whipped cream chargers, and glue will soon require identification to purchase after new laws were passed yesterday banning their sale to minors.
The laws, similar to those that control alcohol and tobacco purchases, are intended to help stamp out the abuse of these currently easily obtainable items by youths to get a "cheap high".
The new laws will also restrict the amount of each item that can be purchased without a commercial licence, with members of the general public now only being able to purchase two cans of paint, one tube of glue, or one box of cream chargers at a time.
Police say these laws will have the added effect of helping curb the growing amounts of vandalism and graffiti, as it will now be more difficult for many of the culprits to obtain paint.
Use of the relatively cheap and accessible inhalants is currently prevalent among children aged 11 to 14, according to welfare agencies. The items when inhaled may provide the user with brief feelings of euphoria, and often result in reckless behaviour, visual distortions and blacking out.
The laws will take effect on the 1st of June 2002 in all Australian states and territories.Bastards! This is typical of the authorities "one law fits all" attitude. I kinda agree with paint and glue, but Nitrous isn't really that dangerous. I guess the way around it is that we'll just have to go bulb shopping for our one box every day of the week now...