Missouri is currently experiencing a rapid increase in overdose deaths involving fentanyl and xylazine, substances frequently found as contaminants in street drugs. While fentanyl overdoses may be reversible through timely administration of naloxone, there is no reversal agent for xylazine, a veterinary sedative not approved for human use. Immediate medical responses such as airway management and rescue breaths are often insufficient in severe xylazine overdoses.

On-site drug testing, specifically reagent testing using strips capable of detecting fentanyl and xylazine, is a critical frontline defense for identifying these deadly contaminants and alerting attendees to potentially lethal risks.

Legal Clarity & Misconceptions

Missouri law explicitly permits the possession, distribution, and use of fentanyl reagent test strips under Senate Bill 186 (Mo. Rev. Stat. § 579.088).

Additionally, despite frequent misconceptions, it is important to note that:

• No event organizer in Missouri has ever been litigated for allowing on-site drug testing.
• No event organizer in the United States has ever faced prosecution under the RAVE Act (Reducing Americans’ Vulnerability to Ecstasy Act) for permitting drug reagent testing at events.

The opposition to on-site drug testing largely stems from misinformation and misunderstandings about legal risk. In fact, numerous cities and venues nationwide—including major festivals and events—have successfully implemented on-site drug testing for years without any legal repercussions or issues.

Immediate Action from Safe Journey Sanctum

Safe Journey Sanctum, a multidisciplinary harm reduction initiative started by the Heartland Transpersonal Alliance in 2025 is prepared to immediately implement free on-site drug testing services at Kansas City events, providing:

• Reagent test strips for detecting fentanyl and xylazine contamination.
• A robust, real-time notification system to promptly inform attendees of detected risks.
• Trained professionals, ensuring testing is confidential, ethical, and in compliance with state and federal guidelines.
• All on-site testing services provided at zero cost to event organizers.

To ensure the continued safety and vibrancy of Kansas City’s music community, event organizers must act swiftly and decisively.

Join me in urging Kansas City event organizers and venue owners to implement immediate on-site drug testing measures.

Who am I?

My name is Dale Morgan and I'm a licensed EMT from Missouri who has provided support services to dozens of festivals and concerts since 2018. I am also the Director of Safe Journey Sanctum and am committed to ensuring our vibrant Kansas City music community remains safe and protected from emerging public health threats.

Let’s act now to save lives, dispel misinformation, and protect the community we cherish.

Sign this petition to support on-site drug testing and robust harm reduction practices in Kansas City live events.

Dale Morgan

Director, Safe Journey Sanctum