SC House passes liquor liability bill to curb insurance costs for bars, restaurants

ABC Team,

 

 

(WCIV) — The liquor liability bill, a piece of legislation targeted at addressing skyrocketing insurance costs faced by bars and restaurants, was passed by the South Carolina House of Representatives Thursday.

According to a release from the South Carolina House Republican Caucus, the legislation will deliver immediate relief to small businesses, all while ensuring accountability and responsibility in alcohol service.

“The House Republican Caucus promised to tackle the soaring costs of insurance and the lack of competition in the market,” said Majority Leader Davey Hiott. “This bill is a key part of our Pillars for Progress agenda because our small businesses cannot afford to be held hostage by out-of-control insurance costs for another year, today we are delivering on that promise. Each of us has heard from our constituents—we can’t wait any longer to act.”

This legislation aims to address what they call the “liquor liability crisis” by doing the following:

  • Ending joint and several liability so responsible businesses aren’t sued for incidents beyond their control.
  • Expanding liquor liability insurance options, allowing more competition to lower costs.
  • Creating a Liquor Liability Risk Mitigation Program, providing clear incentives for responsible alcohol service and lowering premiums for businesses that implement key safety measures.
  • Mandating alcohol server training, ensuring all alcohol servers and managers complete state-approved training to serve responsibly and recognize intoxication.
  • Strengthening enforcement to prevent businesses from knowingly selling alcohol to intoxicated patrons, with the goal of enhancing public safety.

According to House Judiciary Committee Chairman Weston Newton, they have tried to pass a similar bill before, however it didn’t pass the Senate. Now, after addressing the previous concerns raised, they have real hope of it passing.

“This is a targeted, effective solution that businesses support and need now,” said Newton. “A similar bill passed the House last year, but the Senate refused to take it up. We addressed the concerns raised, built consensus with stakeholders, and delivered a more comprehensive bill that will provide real relief while maintaining accountability in alcohol service.”

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