TABC reminds businesses to practice safety ahead of busy Memorial Day weekend
AUSTIN – As Texans gather to celebrate graduation and the Memorial Day holiday, the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission is reminding alcohol retailers to help keep their employees and customers safe by responsibly selling and serving alcohol.
TABC agents will be on duty across the state during the Memorial Day weekend to ensure businesses follow the state’s alcohol laws, including the prevention of alcohol sales or service to minors and intoxicated patrons. Agents will conduct inspections both openly and while undercover, according to Victor Kuykendoll, TABC deputy executive director of Enforcement.
“While this is a time of celebration, it’s also an opportunity to remind our partners in the alcoholic beverage industry of the critical role they play in ensuring Texans stay safe,” Kuykendoll said. “Alcohol retailers are often the first to spot the signs of intoxication, or an underage patron attempting to purchase alcohol, and their employees are the first line of defense when it comes to preventing loss of life in our communities and on our highways.”
Most Texas alcohol retailers require employees to obtain TABC seller-server certification, which includes training on how to spot signs of intoxication or underage customers. Even so, Kuykendoll said, it’s important for employers to empower their staff to take proactive steps to prevent illegal alcohol sales.
“We strongly encourage retailers to decline any alcohol sale if there’s a doubt about a customer’s age or level of intoxication,” he said. “Doing so not only protects the public, it can help protect a business from legal and financial penalties stemming from a violation.”
Businesses found in violation of state alcohol laws could face a fine or temporary suspension of their TABC license. Additionally, employees who improperly sell alcohol could face a misdemeanor charge leading to possible fines or jail time.
For more information about TABC, visit tabc.texas.gov.
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Media Contact:
Chris Porter
TABC Public Information Officer
(512) 206-3462