DeMora, Blessing Introduce Legislation to Prevent Drink Spiking

Today, state Senator Bill DeMora (D- Columbus) and state Senator Louis W. Blessing, III (R- Colerain Township) introduced Senate Bill 348, which would require bars and restaurants to provide date rape drug testing devices for their customers' use for free or at wholesale cost.

"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,” said DeMora. “This issue is especially prevalent on and around college campuses, as 1 in 13 college-aged individuals suspect they have been drugged. With this legislation, we can equip Ohioans with more resources to keep themselves safe. Catching just one spiked drink before it’s too late will make this legislation worth it.”

Senate Bill 348 would require bars and restaurants to carry supplies that can test for drugs like Rohypnol or “roofies.” Similar legislation has been introduced in states such as Washington and California.

Senate Bill 348 now awaits committee referral.