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Bill

H 3430

Tort Reform and Liquor Liability

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Nathan Ballentine and 48 co-sponsors

South Carolina law restricts alcohol server liability and modifies damage caps in personal injury cases, limiting plaintiff compensation while reducing business litigation exposure.

Act No. 42
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Bill Summary · H 3430

Legislative bill overview

H 3430 is a South Carolina tort reform law that modifies liability rules for businesses serving alcohol and adjusts damage caps in personal injury cases. The bill became law in May 2025, limiting the circumstances under which alcohol servers can be held liable for injuries caused by intoxicated individuals.

Why is this important

This law affects how much compensation injured parties can recover and shields businesses from certain liability claims related to alcohol service. It reshapes the balance between consumer protection and business liability in South Carolina, potentially reducing costs for bars and restaurants while limiting recovery options for accident victims.

Potential points of contention

  • Reduced accountability for servers: Narrowing liquor liability may allow negligent alcohol service to go uncompensated, particularly harming victims of drunk driving or alcohol-related assaults
  • Damage cap implications: Tort reform typically caps recoverable damages, which critics argue inadequately compensates severe injuries while supporters say it prevents excessive awards
  • Public health vs. business interests: Consumer advocates worry decreased liability creates fewer incentives for responsible alcohol service practices, while business groups support reduced litigation costs

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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