Rep Nan Cob, Rep Doug Bankson, Rep Rachel Plakon, DBPR Deputy Secretary Emilie Oglesby, and The Hon. Bob Cortes with Seminole County Sheriff’s Office present the Governor’s signed bill to Kathleen Dial, Meg’s sister, along with officers from the Lake County Sheriff’s Office.
Contributed by Representative Rachel Plakon
In a significant move to address the growing epidemic of nitrous oxide misuse among young people, Governor DeSantis has signed “Meg’s Law” into effect. This legislation, sponsored by Representatives Rachel Plakon (District 36/Seminole), Doug Bankson (District 39/Seminole, Orange) and Senator Clay Yarborough (District 4/Nassau, Duval) aims to prevent future tragedies like the one that befell Margaret “Meg” Caldwell.
The signed bill was presented to the Caldwell family in a private ceremony near their home in Lake County at the Lake County Sheriff’s Office Training Center.
Meg, a bright and promising student, was a beloved member of her family and community. She enjoyed skiing, horseback riding, and spending time with her nieces and nephews. Tragically, after discovering nitrous oxide gas at a local smoke shop, Meg’s life spiraled into addiction, ultimately leading to her untimely death in November 2024.
The law prohibits licensed dealers and their employees from possessing, selling, delivering, or giving nitrous oxide from their licensed premises. This critical step seeks to protect other families from the heartache experienced by Meg’s loved ones.
“Meg’s story is a powerful reminder of the dangers that can lurk behind what seems to be innocuous substances,” said Rep. Rachel Plakon. “We hope this law will create awareness and prevent similar tragedies from occurring in the future.”
Meg’s family has expressed their hope that this legislation CS/SB 432 will serve as a lasting legacy for her.
The Department of Business and Professional Regulation worked with legislators on the language for Meg’s Law.
Meg’s Law is part of a larger bill that also cracks down on drug dealers pushing Xylazine, a drug some say is more dangerous than fentanyl. Seminole County Sheriff’s office worked with legislators to help lead the fight against the dangerous substance.
