“It’s a problem that they can’t either find insurance or the cost is extremely exorbitant,” said Nancy Dennis with the Alabama Retail Association.
Business insurance costs can affect the public. Bars can be liable if they serve an intoxicated person who injures someone, like a drunk driver.“This current system isn’t working for anybody. It isn’t working for the injured victim. This is not working for the businesses,” Dennis said. The Alabama Retail Association is among many groups urging lawmakers to pass HB158 and SB104. The companion bills would create a new standard for determining liability.
If someone goes to six bars, becomes intoxicated then injures another person, liability would fall on the bar that “knowingly” served that intoxicated person instead of all the bars. It also requires proof.“It will make it more affordable for more local businesses, more local restaurants and bars,” Dennis said. “They can afford this kind of coverage.”
Lawmakers will be back at the Statehouse Tuesday, and advocates say they hope these bills progress further.Copyright 2023 WSFA. All rights reserved.