This petition is inspired by the case of Riley Strain, a Missouri university student who was attending an annual formal trip in Nashville when he was thrown out of a bar due to intoxication, and subsequently went missing. 

The current practice of bars throwing out drunk patrons without ensuring their safe return home (or to their lodging accommodations) poses serious risks to public safety.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), excessive alcohol use leads to approximately 178,000 deaths in the United States each year. Many of these fatalities are related to impaired judgment and physical ability resulting from intoxication.

We believe that bars have a social responsibility for the safety of their patrons. Therefore, we propose that legislation be enacted requiring all bars to arrange for safe transportation—such as calling a taxi or ride-sharing service—for any patron they deem too intoxicated, before ejecting them from their premises.

This change will not only protect individuals like Riley Strain, but also contribute significantly towards reducing alcohol-related accidents and fatalities.

We urge all who read this petition—lawmakers, bar owners, patrons, and all citizens—to help make our nightlife safer, and protect our friends and families.

Please sign this petition and help us advocate for safer practices within our nightlife establishments.