Concerns about drink spiking has the Tempe City Council considering an ordinance that would, at minimum, require bars and restaurants to carry test kits to prevent the practice and test for drugs.
A public survey revealed people’s comments about the proposed regulations and effectiveness. The same survey also showed some support for the ordinance’s implementation. The city held meetings and feedback opportunities to address the issue.
Before presenting the ordinance, the city says it heard from businesses and other organizations who shared feedback about liability, compliance and reporting.
Councilmember Randy Keating notes this.
“We got some feedback from stakeholders that had some concerns. We wanted to make sure that we were addressing those concerns. Ultimately, at the end of the day, we want to make sure that we have the best possible policy without sacrificing any public safety,” he said.
The proposal would mandate businesses provide kits for sale or at no cost.
“We got some feedback from stakeholders that had some concerns. We wanted to make sure that we were addressing those concerns. Ultimately, at the end of the day, we want to make sure that we have the best possible policy without sacrificing any public safety,” he said.
He says the survey revealed one group of people particularly affected.
“So, we saw that women first and foremost had experienced some sort of issue around drink spiking. Then we also saw — as far as public support — it being overwhelmingly supported by all age brackets of women in Tempe.”
Keating says the city would offer a tax rebate to those businesses offering test kits for patrons at no cost. Approximately 70 Tempe businesses would be affected by the ordinance.
The public hearing for the drink spiking ordinance is scheduled for Thursday.
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