The bill S. 133 proposes several amendments to the South Carolina Code of Laws concerning the sale of alcoholic beverages and related liability insurance requirements. It mandates that individuals licensed to sell alcoholic beverages must surrender their licenses after three incidents within a calendar year that activate their liquor liability insurance coverage. Additionally, the bill reduces the required liquor liability insurance coverage from one million dollars to two hundred fifty thousand dollars. It also introduces a new definition of "person" for legal purposes and modifies the rules regarding joint and several liability, stating that if a plaintiff is found to be fifty percent or more at fault, the jury must return a verdict for the defendant.

Furthermore, the bill prohibits punitive damages in any action related to the insurance policies required for liquor sales. It establishes that if a plaintiff is less than fifty percent at fault, defendants are liable only for their percentage of fault. The amendments aim to clarify liability and insurance requirements, potentially reducing the burden on businesses selling alcoholic beverages while ensuring that liability is fairly apportioned among parties involved in tort actions. The bill will take effect upon approval by the Governor.

Statutes affected:
12/11/2024: 61-2-140, 61-2-145, 15-3-530, 15-38-12, 15-38-15, 15-33-135
01/17/2025: 61-2-140, 61-2-145, 15-3-530, 15-38-12, 15-38-15, 15-33-135
Latest Version: 61-2-140, 61-2-145, 15-3-530, 15-38-12, 15-38-15, 15-33-135