The amendment to the Liquor Licensing Regulations of Nova Scotia, N.S. Reg. 149/2024 introduces key modifications to the existing Liquor Licensing Regulations (N.S. Reg. 365/2007). The amendments primarily aim to improve public safety by ensuring that individuals serving liquor at licensed establishments or events have undergone proper training in responsible alcohol service.

One of the central changes brought by this amendment is the introduction of new provisions that require both permanent and special occasion licensees to confirm that their staff have completed an approved responsible alcohol service program.

Section 8A has been added to the regulations, which allows the Executive Director to request proof from permanent licensees that all individuals serving liquor at their establishments have completed a responsible alcohol service program. Similarly, Section 37C introduces a corresponding obligation for special occasion licensees, ensuring that all individuals serving liquor at events have undergone the required training.

Several other sections of the regulations are also amended to replace previous references to “beverage service training” with the more specific requirement of completing an approved responsible alcohol service program. This includes amendments to Clauses 43B(c), 58C(2)(c), and 58D(4)(c), which now stipulate that such training must meet the approval of the Executive Director, further standardizing the qualifications for those serving alcohol.

The amendment also updates Section 66, mandating that licensees designate a person in charge of their premises who has completed the responsible alcohol service program. Additionally, two new sections, 66A and 66B, are introduced to strengthen the enforcement of responsible alcohol service training. Section 66A requires permanent licensees to ensure that all servers have completed the training, while Section 66B grants the Executive Director the discretion to impose this requirement on special occasion licensees under specific conditions.

Another key element of the amendment is the update to Clause 75(1)(d), which now requires that employee records include confirmation of completion of the responsible alcohol service program. This reinforces the importance of maintaining proper documentation to demonstrate compliance with the new regulatory requirements.

By ensuring that all individuals serving liquor have completed an approved training program, the regulations aim to reduce alcohol-related harm, particularly in settings where large crowds or extended hours of operation may increase risks. The introduction of these measures demonstrates a proactive approach to managing alcohol service in the province, ensuring that licensees are held accountable for the training and behavior of their staff.

Nova Scotia (149/2024) August 9, 2024