What does the TABC consider when assessing a violation?

The TABC considers the severity of the violation and the past conduct of the violator when assessing a violation. This comprehensive approach allows the commission to evaluate not just the specific incident that occurred but also the broader context of the establishment’s history with compliance or infractions.

Severity refers to how serious the violation is, which could range from minor infractions, such as paperwork errors, to more significant issues like selling alcohol to a minor. Past conduct provides insight into whether this is a first-time offense or if the establishment has a history of repeated violations, which could influence the penalty imposed. This helps the TABC maintain a standard of accountability and encourage establishments to operate responsibly within the law.

This method also underscores the commission's objective to foster safe alcohol consumption practices rather than solely focusing on the incident itself or financial aspects. Understanding historical compliance behaviors allows the TABC to address not just the immediate issue but also promote a culture of responsible service in the long term.