Ohio House Bill HB504

Ohio 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/23/24

Caption

Enact Hayden's Law regarding alcohol server training

Impact

The implementation of Hayden's Law is expected to alter the framework of liability for alcohol service establishments. By providing immunity from civil lawsuits to those who meet the training requirements, the bill positions itself as a protective measure for permit holders and their employees against claims related to the actions of intoxicated persons. This could incentivize businesses to engage in responsible serving practices, ultimately aiming to reduce alcohol-related incidents and promote safer environments within licensed venues.

Summary

House Bill 504, also known as Hayden's Law, is a legislative proposal aimed at enhancing alcohol server training and establishing civil immunity for liquor permit holders and their employees who successfully complete such training. The bill amends section 4399.18 of the Revised Code and enacts a new section 4399.19, requiring a designated training program that includes instruction on relevant laws for alcohol service, underage drinking prevention, and recognizing when to stop serving alcohol to customers showing signs of intoxication. This bill reflects an initiative to improve alcohol service safety standards in Ohio establishments.

Contention

While proponents of HB 504 advocate for the benefits of such training and the legal protection it offers, there may be concerns related to how effective these training programs will be in genuinely reducing liability and improving safety. Critics could question the adequacy of the training outlined in the bill, as well as the potential for reduced accountability for establishments that may not adhere strictly to responsible serving practices. The balance between offering protections to businesses and ensuring public safety will likely be a central point of debate among legislators and stakeholders.