Some alcohol lawsuits would cap pain and suffering payments at $500,000

Each covered lawsuit would have a $500,000 total limit for pain, suffering, and similar harms. Covered cases involve alcohol sales to minors or intoxicated people. It is unclear whether the scheduled $50,000 increases would raise this cap. The measure would take effect after mayoral approval or a Council veto override and a 30-day congressional review. Increases would start January 1, 2037, and recur every 10 years.

D.C.'s insurance department would study whether requiring minimum insurance coverage could lower premiums. The study would focus on coverage for claims tied to alcohol sales at D.C. nightlife businesses. The department would have to compare how other states' minimum coverage rules affect premiums. The department would have 180 days after the measure takes effect to conduct the study.