California AB-1013: DrinkCheck's Guide to the California Drink Spiking Law

A Complete Guide for Bar & Nightclub Owners


What You Need to Know About California AB-1013

On October 7, 2023, Governor Gavin Newsom signed Assembly Bill 1013 into law, marking a significant step forward in protecting patrons from drink spiking incidents. This landmark legislation was introduced by Assemblymember Josh Lowenthal in response to alarming increases in drink spiking cases and related assaults throughout California.

Essential Facts:

  • Effective Date: July 1, 2024
  • Who Must Comply: All California Type 48 licensees (bars and nightclubs)
  • Requirement: Provide customers with access to drink spiking detection devices
  • Purpose: Prevent drugging incidents and protect patrons from potential harm

Your Compliance Checklist

As a bar or nightclub owner in California, you must take the following steps to ensure compliance by July 1, 2024:

✓ Offer Reliable Testing Solutions

The law requires you to provide customers with access to reliable drink spiking detection devices. DrinkCheck test strips detect GHB, ketamine, cocaine, and scopolamine - covering more substances than most alternatives.

✓ Decide on Your Distribution Method

You have flexibility in how you provide these tests:

  • Offer them complimentary as a customer service
  • Provide them at wholesale cost
  • Install dispensers in restrooms
  • Have staff distribute upon request

✓ Ensure Your Tests Meet Requirements

Your chosen solution must:

  • Reliably detect common drink spiking substances
  • Be easy for customers to use
  • Provide clear results

✓ Understand Liability Protection

The law includes important liability protections:

  • Establishments are not liable for defective tests
  • You cannot be held responsible for false positives or negatives
  • This protection only applies when you comply with the law

Why DrinkCheck is Your Ideal Compliance Partner

Superior Detection Technology

While the law requires testing for common substances like GHB, DrinkCheck goes further:

  • Detects four major spiking substances: GHB, ketamine, cocaine, and scopolamine
  • Clinically validated with 99% accuracy
  • Results in under 15 seconds
  • Individually sealed for maximum hygiene

Discreet & User-Friendly Design

  • Ultra-compact size fits anywhere
  • Individually packaged for easy distribution
  • Clear visual indicators anyone can understand
  • No training required for staff or patrons

Comprehensive Compliance Support

When you partner with DrinkCheck for AB-1013 compliance, you receive:

  • Staff training materials
  • Customer information cards
  • Customized display signage
  • Compliance documentation
  • Dedicated account manager

California-Specific Bulk Packages

We've created special packages specifically designed for California establishments:

Essential Compliance Package

  • 500 DrinkCheck test strips
  • Information cards
  • Basic signage
  • Compliance documentation

Premium Protection Package

  • 1,000+ DrinkCheck test strips
  • Custom-branded information cards
  • Premium signage with your logo
  • Staff training materials
  • Compliance documentation
  • Ongoing support

Expert Implementation Strategies

Staff Training

Properly trained staff can help ensure smooth implementation of your drink spiking prevention program:

  • How to discreetly offer tests
  • Answering customer questions
  • Handling positive test results
  • Emergency response procedures

Customer Communication

How you communicate about drink safety affects your establishment's atmosphere:

  • Position as a customer service rather than a warning
  • Emphasize your commitment to patron safety
  • Incorporate into your existing safety protocols
  • Use positive, empowering messaging

Request Your California Compliance Quote

California bar and nightclub owners need to act now to ensure compliance by July 1, 2024.

For quantities of 500+ units and California-specific compliance packages, contact:

Email: dimatteo@parahealth.de

Please include:

  • Your establishment name and license type
  • Number of locations
  • Approximate monthly patron volume
  • Preferred implementation approach

Our California compliance specialists will respond within 24 hours with a customized solution.


DrinkCheck is committed to helping California establishments create safer environments while meeting their regulatory obligations.