SCRLA Applauds General Assembly for Postponing Mandatory Alcohol Server Training Deadline to May 1

The South Carolina Restaurant & Lodging Association (SCRLA) today issued a statement applauding the South Carolina General Assembly for the swift advancement of legislation to postpone the mandatory alcohol server training deadline to May 1.

This extension provides vital relief and flexibility to the state’s hospitality industry as businesses navigate the transition toward compliance with new liquor liability reforms under H. 3430.

“This is a significant and welcome win for South Carolina’s hospitality industry,” said Douglas OFlaherty, Interim President and COO of SCRLA. “Our members have been working diligently to comply with the sweeping changes under H. 3430, and this extension provides critical breathing room to ensure full and proper implementation without disrupting operations.”

The SCRLA expressed its sincere appreciation to the leaders who spearheaded this effort, including Chairman Weston Newton, Chairman Luke Rankin, and Senator Michael Johnson for recognizing the practical challenges facing small businesses across the state and acting decisively to address them.

The Association also praised Lt. Governor Pamela Evette for her strong leadership and steadfast advocacy on behalf of the hospitality industry throughout this process.

“I am incredibly appreciative of the input I received from numerous S.C. bar and restaurant owners, as well as the SCRLA, regarding the challenges they were facing with the initial alcohol server training deadline,” said Lt. Governor Pamela Evette. “Because of their outreach, and conversations with both the South Carolina Department of Revenue (SCDOR) and members of the General Assembly, we were able to collaborate and work expeditiously to find a solution. Once again, common sense prevails! Thank you to all parties involved for helping ensure our servers are well trained, which helps lower liability costs and reduce DUI incidents statewide."

“Lt. Governor Evette understood early on the operational realities our members were facing and worked collaboratively to help secure a practical solution,” said OFlaherty. "Her engagement and commitment to South Carolina's hospitality industry made a meaningful difference in achieving this outcome."

The SCRLA now urges Governor Henry McMaster to promptly sign the legislation into law, allowing businesses across the state to move forward with clarity and confidence.

The May 1 deadline extension ensures that hospitality operators can complete the required alcohol server training responsibly and thoroughly. This reinforcement of South Carolina’s commitment to public safety helps maintain a healthy, vibrant industry while keeping the state one of the most business-friendly in the nation.

SCRLA remains committed to working with state leaders, regulators, and stakeholders to support the successful implementation of H. 3430.