Starting this summer, California bars and nightclubs will be a little bit safer for those looking to have a good time.
In a news release, the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control announced Monday that Assembly Bill 1013 will go into effect on July 1. The new law requires establishments with a type 48 license, most commonly bars and nightclubs, to offer kits capable of testing drinks for date rape drugs, commonly referred to as “roofies.”
A type 48 liquor license is issued to establishments that serve beer, wine and distilled spirits for consumption within the premises that the drinks are sold. Food service is not a requirement at type 48 licensees.
The law, created in an effort to protect patrons from being drugged while on a night out, also requires those business to display signage letting people know of the kits’ availability.
The ABC listed an example sign on its website, reading “Don’t get roofied! Drink spiking drug test kits available here. Ask a staff member for details.” The signs must be posted in a prominent location within the business.
The law will impact about 2,400 businesses throughout California, the ABC said. Those businesses will need to obtain the kits themselves, and can’t charge more than a “reasonable amount.”
The ABC said the test kits can come in the form of test strips, stickers, straws or other devices. Any type 48 licensee that doesn’t comply could have their license impacted.
