Law enforcement officials in Horry County are calling it a problem that's been largely ignored, the serving of alcohol to people who are already intoxicated.
They plan to increase enforcement of the law starting December 8th.
In a news release, the South Carolina 15th Judicial Circuit's Alcohol Enforcement Team says despite it being against the law, studies have shown it's a widespread issue.
Brian Booth, the Coordinator of Prevention Services for Shoreline Behavioral Health Services, says one study found that just under 80% of the time, intoxicated patrons were continuously sold alcohol. He added that according to a study in Michigan, after just 3 months of enforcement, refusal rates rose from 17.5% to 54.3%. He said during that same time, the percentage of drivers arrested for DUI that reported they were coming from a bar or restaurant fell from 31.7% to 23.3%.
Booth says the enforcement effort will continue over the next several months, with law enforcement agencies working together to enforce the law.
Do you think this is a law that can be easily enforced?
