Tempe could soon become the first Arizona city to pass a law to combat drink spiking.
Why it matters: The crime is thought to be heavily underreported and is often associated with sexual assault.
- Danya Sherman, executive director of anti-drink-spiking advocacy group
- , told Axios that about 90% of incidents go unreported.
State of play: Tempe City Council member Randy Keating told Axios the proposed ordinance, which isn’t yet finalized, would focus on both detection and prevention.
- Bars would have to offer drink testing kits to patrons and could sell them for up to 120% of the purchase cost. Keating said they’re about $5 each.
- Bars that hand them out for free, along with drink covers to block spiking, could get rebates on their liquor license fees.
- Drink covers wouldn’t be mandatory but would be required for a rebate.
Zoom in: Keating said the city estimates about 130 businesses in Tempe would be subject to the new requirements.
- To be in full compliance, businesses could expect $400 in associated costs, though the price tag would vary by type of bar. Keating anticipates the rebates would cover the full costs.
Catch up quick: The Tempe City Council created a Drink Spiking Education and Prevention Council Subcommittee after KnoMore brought the issue to the city’s attention earlier this year.
- Sherman told Axios that her group is active across the country and its goal is to reach communities with major nightlife presences.
What’s next: Stakeholders and the public will have two weeks to share feedback with the city, Keating said.
- After the subcommittee’s Dec. 10 meeting, it will review that input and decide next steps.
- Keating hopes for a final vote in early 2026 — and that other Arizona cities will follow suit.
What he’s saying: “We want to create a culture of safety here in Tempe,” Keating said…