DeMora Provides Sponsor Testimony on Legislation to Prevent Drink Spiking

This week, state Senator Bill DeMora (D- Columbus) and state Senator Louis W. Blessing, III (R- Colerain Township) gave sponsor testimony on 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 is prevalent on and around college campuses,” said DeMora. “1 in 13 college-aged individuals suspect they have been drugged, which unfortunately has led to far too many instances of sexual violence. Our bill requires that the test strips detect the most commonly used drugs for drink spiking, such as Rohypnol (“roofies”), gamma hydroxybutyric acid (liquid ecstasy), and ketamine. In addition, the bill requires bar owners to post a sign that would notify customers of the available strips.” 

Similar legislation has been introduced in states such as Tennessee, Washington, and California. States like California and Washington also have laws similar to Senate Bill 348, requiring bars and restaurants to carry supplies that can test for drugs like Rohypnol. S.B. 348 empowers Ohioans, especially college students, with the tools to test their drinks and feel safer in bars, restaurants, and clubs. 

Senate Bill 348 awaits further hearings in the Senate Small Business and Economic Opportunity Committee.