The bill S. 184 aims to amend the South Carolina Code of Laws by adding Section 15-3-710, which establishes the liability of individuals or establishments that unlawfully furnish alcohol to individuals who subsequently cause injury to third parties. The bill defines key terms such as "alcohol," "licensee," and "visibly intoxicated." It specifies that a licensee can be held civilly liable for damages if they knew or should have known that the individual was visibly intoxicated at the time of serving alcohol, or if they were aware that the individual would likely become intoxicated based on observable factors. Additionally, the bill outlines that a licensee is also liable if they serve alcohol to individuals under the age of twenty-one, provided that the intoxication or the act of serving alcohol was a proximate cause of injury or damage.

Furthermore, the bill clarifies that the right of action survives the death of any party involved, allowing the personal representative of the deceased to pursue claims. This legislation is designed to hold alcohol-serving establishments accountable for their role in preventing alcohol-related harm to third parties, thereby promoting responsible alcohol service practices. The act will take effect upon approval by the Governor.

Statutes affected:
01/14/2025: 15-3-710
02/26/2025: 15-3-710
03/05/2025: 15-3-710
Latest Version: 15-3-710