The Iowa House has voted to limit liability for bars and restaurants accused of over-serving a drunk customer. However — unlike the Republican-led Senate — House members have voted to let juries award an unlimited amount of money for “substantial or permanent” damages from a drunk driving accident, like the victim’s death or significant medical bills. Otherwise, “non-economic” damages when bars or restaurants are accused of over-serving a customer would be limited to 250-thousand dollars. Representative Brian Best, a Republican from Glidden, was given the task of managing the bill and he was the only supporter who spoke during debate.

 

Representative Clel Baudler, a Republican from Greenfield who’s a retired state trooper, voted against the bill. Baudler says current law works and doesn’t need to be changed.

 

The bill passed the House on a 61to 36 vote. It goes back to the Senate, which must consider changes made to the bill in the House.