Amid questions about her future plans for higher office, First Lady Casey DeSantis took the lead at the podium as state authorities announced a statewide bust of retailers selling nitrous oxide, otherwise known as “whippets.”
The Department of Business and Professional Regulation’s (DBPR) Division of Alcoholic Beverages and Tobacco (ABT) announced 70 felony arrests and 16 warrants. It’s the largest statewide initiative resulting in felony arrests in ABT’s 92-year history.
“As a mom, it really, really angers me that you have people out there selling this, distributing it, knowing that it’s going to cause harm,” DeSantis said Tuesday. “Knowing and just not caring that this could end the life of a young person.”
The statewide investigation went on to combat the growing nitrous oxide abuse happening in teens and young adults.
“During the investigation, undercover agents purchased nitrous oxide canisters from DBPR-licensed retailers across the state. In many instances, sellers not only supplied the product but also instructed agents on how to use the canisters and devices to ‘get high,’” according to a press release from Gov. Ron DeSantis’ Office.
“These interactions provided unmistakable evidence that sales were being made with the knowledge and intent of unlawful recreational use.”
Casey DeSantis brought up an anti-drug campaign at K-12 schools Tuesday.
“That’s kind of what Nancy Reagan started in the late 1980s with ‘Just Say No.’ We’ve tried to really update that with ‘Just Say No — but here’s why,’” she said.
Speaking after the First Lady, Lt. Gov. Jay Collins revealed how the cause is personal to him.
“I grew up in a family marred by alcohol, by drugs. So I understand how difficult this is,” Collins said. “I lost a sister to alcohol and drug abuse.”
Collins’ comments come as he is mulling a gubernatorial bid. He told POLITICO he would consider making Casey his running mate if he does run. But the two did not elaborate on any future plans during Tuesday’s remarks.
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