The Journal Gazette has what looks to be a series entitled, “Enacted Legislation, Everyday Lives”. Today’s installment: Bartenders: No cheers for server’s licenses
The law is SEA 382 concerning alcohol server training. It was authored by Sen. Alting and Hershman and sponsored by Rep. Alderman and Duncan. The article interviews a long-time bartender who doesn’t think the classes will do much to supplement his 8 years of experience. He grudgingly acknowledges the possibility that such classes could be helpful for new servers. The article reports that no fee is currently set by the Alcohol and Tobacco Commission but that the Commission is authorized to set fees. The article quotes one owner as being of the opinion that the legislation is just one more way for the state to get money.
New employees have to become licensed within 90 days of employment. Current employees have until January 1, 2008. I always judge the licensure and certification bills by their grandfather clauses. If the threat is dire enough that it needs to be dealth with through government regulation, I figure the public’s safety can’t be jeopardized by allowing unqualified individuals to remain in place through lengthy grandfather periods. According to the legislature, it’s acceptable to have unqualified individuals continue to serve us alcohol for the next 3 years.
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