AUSTIN — City staff will ask bars and community stakeholders what worked and what needs to change as Austin’s Sip Safely drink-spiking prevention program moves beyond its pilot phase. Launched in 2024, the voluntary program provides participating bars with free drink test strips, drink covers and signage. Roughly 70 bars took part in the pilot. The pilot’s funding period has ended, but City Council approved $20,000 in its latest budget to continue the effort. The city said it will seek input from businesses and community members who participated, including suggestions for practical, cost-effective approaches to supplying test strips and collecting data. Staff also said they are open to considering other ways to improve the program. District 9 Council Member Zo Qadri, whose district includes downtown, helped advance the initiative after residents brought concerns to his office about drinks being spiked. He said regular communication with venues will matter as the program continues, including checking whether bars need additional support. Some bar owners have voiced support for the program while saying they have not thought about it as actively since its launch. Inn Cahoots owner Kristen Carson called it important and well-intentioned. Tasha Miller, owner of participating bar Pelon’s Tex Mex, said providing the materials free made the program worthwhile and could help guests feel safer. The city initially designed Sip Safely as a pilot to provide resources and learn what works. The next phase will give businesses and community stakeholders a chance to shape how Austin carries it forward.