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. Additionally, the bill reduces the required coverage for liquor liability insurance from one million dollars to two hundred fifty thousand dollars. It also introduces a new section defining "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 amends the statute of limitations for actions on these insurance policies to align with existing laws. The changes aim to streamline the legal framework surrounding alcohol sales and liability, potentially reducing the burden on businesses while clarifying the responsibilities and liabilities of both sellers and insurers. The act will take effect upon the Governor's approval.

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