Bill > HB1367

This bill addresses alcoholic beverage regulations for establishments licensed by the Alcoholic Beverage Laws Enforcement (ABLE) Commission by establishing new provisions that define how employee actions relate to the establishment's liability. The bill creates definitions for "employee" and introduces an affirmative defense mechanism for licensed establishments when employees violate alcohol service rules. Under the new law, an establishment can avoid liability for an employee's violation if it can demonstrate that it required all employees to maintain valid ABLE Commission licenses, mandated seller-server training certificates, adopted written policies prohibiting alcohol service to minors, intoxicated persons, or mentally deficient individuals, and ensured employees understand these policies through written acknowledgments. If an employee violates alcohol service rules three or more times within twelve months, the ABLE Commission can create a rebuttable presumption that the establishment has indirectly encouraged violations. The establishment then bears the burden of proving it did not encourage such violations. Importantly, the bill provides a structured approach to holding establishments accountable while also offering a pathway to demonstrate responsible management, with the new provisions set to take effect on November 1, 2025.