California Law Requires Bars and Nightclubs to Provide Drug Test Tools and Warning Signage

California has become the first state in the country to enact a new law that will require bars and nightclubs to provide drug test tools and post warning signage about drink spiking. The measure, known as AB1310, will come into effect on July 1 of this year. Under this law, establishments holding a Type 48 liquor license, which includes bars and nightclubs that do not serve food, will be obligated to offer patrons drug testing kits to detect common date-rape drugs, commonly referred to as ‘roofies’.

Approximately 2,400 establishments across the Golden State will be affected by this new legislation. The required signage will display a clear message, stating, “Don’t get roofied! Drink spiking drug test kits available here. Ask a staff member for details.” The law mandates that these test strips must be made available to customers upon request, either for free or for a small charge.

The introduction of AB1310 was spearheaded by State Assembly member Jowsh Lowenthal of Long Beach, who also owns three restaurants. Lowenthal emphasized that the primary goal of this bill is to prevent sexual assault, which disproportionately affects women and members of the LGBTQ communities. In a video presentation to the assembly, he shared that the crime of drink spiking is often underreported and highlighted personal experiences within his own staff and the legislative body.

Test strips for detecting date-rape drugs have been available on the market for several years, commonly distributed at colleges, universities, and within the U.S. military community. However, California’s new law marks the first time such a requirement has been mandated at the state level.

As the implementation date approaches, establishments holding Type 48 liquor licenses will need to ensure compliance with the law’s provisions. By providing drug test tools and prominently displaying warning signage, these establishments aim to create a safer environment for their patrons, reducing the risk of drink spiking incidents.