Tempe, Arizona is on the cusp of a new safety initiative aimed at confronting the covert danger of drink spiking in its local bars—the city may soon mandate that establishments carry test kits that can detect the presence of covertly added drugs, a move that positions Tempe as the state's leader in nightlife safety. In a development reported by FOX 10 Phoenix, Tempe City Councilmember Randy Keating has revealed a proposed city ordinance requiring bars to carry these test kits, stating, "Ultimately I'd like to see drink testing kits available at every bar and restaurant that meets the criteria."
According to the FOX 10 Phoenix article, these test kits work by taking a few drops of a beverage and, within minutes, indicating whether any one of 12 drugs, including Xanax and Rohypnol, are present unlike the traditional method of simply covering a drink with a coaster to signal a return, these kits provide a tangible resource for patrons to ensure their safety. Tempe Police noted an estimated 90% of drink spiking incidents go unreported, despite 23 cases being on the books for 2024.
Complementing the push for test kits, an educational event took place at Outlaw Distillery on Dec. 3, as detailed by Your Valley, where attendees learned about drink spiking and tried various drink lid options ahead of the Dec. 10 public meeting, as Tempe continues to embody safety intertwined with its bustling nightlife. "Safety in Tempe isn't just talk—it's action," Keating affirmed in a statement, outlining the city's proactive approach to establish a secure leisure environment.
The ordinance supports Tempe’s Drink Spiking Education and Prevention Subcommittee, which is looking at ways to protect bar and restaurant customers and raise awareness about drink tampering. Similar rules already exist in places like California and Nashville. Tempe residents can share their opinions through an online survey open until Dec. 14, as per Your Valley.
