SC Liquor Liability Reform Aims to Lower Insurance Costs

South Carolina lawmakers reached a bipartisan agreement to ease rising liquor liability insurance costs for businesses. The new law modifies “joint and several” liability, requiring businesses to be at least 50% responsible for alcohol-related damages, preventing them from being liable for total costs when minimally at fault. While million-dollar policies remain, incentives for safety measures like early closing and training are included. Juries can now assign responsibility to other liable parties, such as drunk drivers. The SC Bar and Tavern Association sees this as progress but will continue advocating for further reforms targeting problematic establishments.