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House approves compromise to clarify dram-shop liability limits despite insurer concerns
Summary
First substitute HB 312 clarified conflicting language in Utah’s dram-shop code, specifying $1,000,000 per person and $2,000,000 per occurrence with a phased implementation. Supporters said it fulfills the state's promise to the public; opponents warned insurers might withdraw or raise premiums. The bill passed 65–6.
On Feb. 20 the Utah House passed first substitute House Bill 312, a measure to resolve conflicting statutory language on dram-shop liability and the insurance obligations of establishments that serve alcoholic beverages.
Representative Snow, sponsor of the substitute, said the existing statute capped an owner’s liability at $1,000,000 per person and $2,000,000 in aggregate but that the insurance requirement had been read as $1,000,000 per occurrence in practice, shortchanging potential claimants. "We're going to cap their liability...…
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