JOHNSON CITY, Tenn. (WJHL) — Recent legislative actions by Gov. Bill Lee have introduced several new laws, among which includes a significant measure targeting the issue of drink spiking in bars and restaurants.
This new regulation mandates that establishments licensed to serve alcohol must provide drink-testing devices for patrons who suspect their beverages might have been tampered with.
Speaking through his business partner and translator, Brian Rios, Miguel Gonzalez, who is set to open Las Reinas in Johnson City, expressed support for the law, highlighting its role in enhancing customer safety.
Rios explained, “Our priority is to ensure a safe environment for everyone, including families. We plan to operate during breakfast, lunch, and dinner times, and our goal is to guarantee the safety of our patrons. Should they have any concerns or need to use the testing device, we will make it readily available.”
Las Reinas is preparing to open its doors in the location previously occupied by Diablo Mexican Grill on E. Main Street, currently undergoing final inspections before its grand opening.
The new change will bring new training for staff and customers.
“Showing us how to do it, when to do it. Showing us how to get people to learn to ask for it, because we would never want something like that to happen here,” Rios said.
Residents like Chris Tritico and Mary Scherzinger told news Channel 11 that this will help make bars a safer place.
“I believe this new law could definitely help downtown Johnson City be safer and have more of a nightlife and have people in brand new to the city feel safe,” Tritico said.
“I know that most women, anybody who’s frequenting bars, would have experienced situations where they’re questioning whether or not they have been drugged,” Scherzinger said. “I think it’s a good safety protocol for every bar to have.”
Businesses will also be required to post a notice informing customers that the device is available.
“If anyone, I mean anyone at all, says, ‘hey, we need this.’ Don’t hesitate. Use it,” Rios told News Channel 11. “They can go up to someone on the staff, or they can go up to someone in security or something like that. “
The new law will go into effect on July 1. To read the full law, click here.