The Brief Florida is intensifying enforcement against the illegal sale of nitrous oxide, also known as Galaxy Gas, after a woman’s death and a class-action lawsuit. Lawmakers continue to debate tougher regulations as concerns grow over what officials call a "national health crisis." Florida authorities are cracking down on the illegal sale of nitrous oxide, following rising concerns about abuse. Known on the street as "laughing gas," "whippets," or "nangs," nitrous oxide has been linked to a growing number of health emergencies nationwide. Big picture view:Authorities and health officials describe the nitrous oxide problem as a growing public health crisis.