Ohio may be on the verge of tightening safety measures in bars and restaurants through proposed legislation that aims to tackle the issue of drink spiking. Senate Bill 348, put forward by Senators Bill DeMora (D) and Louis W. Blessing III (R), would mandate these establishments to provide customers with date rape drug testing kits. As per Local12, the bipartisan initiative is a direct response to what DeMora describes as a "nightly occurrence" of drugging incidents, which often remain unaddressed, particularly in areas surrounding college campuses.
In a press release, DeMora highlighted the gravity of this issue, citing that "1 in 13 college-aged individuals suspect they have been drugged," and asserting that "While 90% of drink spiking incidents go unreported, we know through statistics and personal accounts shared with my office that drink spiking remains a nightly occurrence across Ohio." According to a statement obtained by Bay News 9, this legislation seeks to equip Ohioans with more resources to ensure their safety, emphasizing that "Catching just one spiked drink before it's too late will make this legislation worth it."
The bill stipulates a requirement for drug testing kits to be available either for free or at wholesale cost, made in the U.S., and capable of detecting at least 10 controlled substances within five minutes. Establishments would also be obligated to inform customers about the availability of these devices. As noted by WHIO, Senate Bill 348 is currently poised to be reviewed by the Senate and, if it passes, will then move to the Ohio House for further deliberation before potentially being signed into law.
Furthermore, the bill provides some legal protection for permit holders, asserting that "A qualified permit holder is not liable for a defective test or inaccurate test result of a drink drug testing device, including a false positive or false negative test result," as Senator DeMora told Bay News 9. Supporters of the bill believe that having to immediately provide access to test kits could possibly serve to prevent not just sexual assaults, but also medical emergencies related to drug-facilitated crimes.
The move by Ohio legislators reflects a growing trend — similar measures have previously been enacted in California, and efforts are underway in Washington state. If Senate Bill 348 passes, Ohio will join these states in a more proactive approach against the spiking of drinks, sending a clear message of zero tolerance for such actions and providing patrons with the tools necessary to safeguard their well-being in social settings.
