I think that tear gas should remain, and at its full strength, but only be avaliable to SCO19.
I know most of you might think that I am only saying this as I am obviously a member, but I have some justification as to why.
Tear gas should not be carried as part of a daily loadout. That it the problem we are currently presented with. All cops seem to be carrying 3+ cans of CS and that is mainly why it gets used so often.
SCO19 are called for armed response, in extreme situations, we bring the big guns, and you don't want us to be there. We are called when extreme measures are needed. I think that it is only times like this that it should be used, not by every single patrolling officer.
As DI, I can vouch for all members of my unit that they are very sparing on the use of tear gas, and I do not even carry it on me, due to the boonie hat looking too cool to swap out for the gas mask. However, if I do feel that I will need it, I ditch the fashion preferences and suit up.
I do also think that rebels should have either a cheap, half-protection, or a very expensive gas mask.