SACRAMENTO, August 14, 2026 – Assemblymember Josh Lowenthal’s (Long Beach - D) Assembly Bill 1982 that would mandate bars and nightclubs provide drink lids and drug testing kids on request passed in the California Senate and in Concurrence in the California State Assembly. It now sits on the Governor’s desk awaiting signature. The passage of AB 1982 means California is one step closer to enshrining drink spiking protections for Californians indefinitely.
“Everyone should feel like they can go out and have a drink without having to worry if a drug was slipped in it. Once a spiked drink has been consumed it’s nearly impossible to reverse, which is why prevention is critical,” said Assemblymember Josh Lowenthal
Drink spiking is a crime that is disturbingly prevalent but grossly underreported. Although, there are few statistics on the prevalence of this crime, studies estimate that the prevalence is 8% but concede that the real figure could be much higher. With nearly 1-in-10 Californians being affected by this crime, AB 1982 is a vital measure to ensure Californians can enjoy their drinks in peace.
"With the passage of AB 1982, we can move beyond short-term compliance and fully integrate prevention into everyday operations. This is one way we can stop harm before it happens. I am thankful for Assemblymember Lowenthal's leadership and our partnership on this crime prevention strategy that makes nightlife safer for everyone," said Lila Carrillo, Director, Sexual Harassment & Assault Response and Prevention Office (SHARP) in the San Francisco Mayor's Office for Victims' Rights.
Bill details: AB 1982 eliminates the sunset on AB 1013 and AB 2375. Together the bills require that Type 48 licensees (primarily bars and nightclubs) offer drug testing devices and lids for sale or upon request. All Californians will now be able to protect their drinks at bars and nightclubs indefinitely.
