News Summary
Bumpas Bar, a beloved family-owned establishment in Charleston, will close its doors following the upcoming Saint Patrick’s Day due to soaring liquor liability insurance costs, which have surged nearly 600% since 2020. The community is facing a significant loss, as discussions about insurance reforms and legislative relief for small businesses are underway to protect local culture.
Charleston’s Beloved Bumpas Bar to Close After Saint Patrick’s Day
Charleston has long cherished its family-owned establishments, where locals gather to share stories, enjoy good food, and sip on their favorite drinks. Unfortunately, one of these hidden gems, Bumpas Bar, will soon be closing its doors for good after its final Saint Patrick’s Day festivities. The family-run establishment, located on bustling Cumberland Street, has become a beloved spot for both residents and visitors alike, but it has fallen victim to a rising tide of insurance costs.
The Bitter Reality of Rising Insurance Costs
So why is Bumpas Bar shutting down? The owners cite a staggering surge in liquor liability insurance costs as the main driving force behind their decision. Since a law was enacted in South Carolina in 2017, mandating that any business selling liquor after 5 p.m. must carry a hefty $1 million insurance policy, many bars and restaurants have been facing an uphill battle just to keep their lights on. Over the past few years, Bumpas has been hit hard, experiencing nearly a 600% increase in insurance rates since they opened their doors in 2020. This has made it increasingly difficult to sustain operations, even as they have consistently met their revenue goals.
Exploring Legislative Changes for Small Businesses
As the community comes to terms with the impending closure of Bumpas Bar, there are discussions happening on a larger scale regarding the issue of rising insurance costs. Local state senator Ed Sutton is advocating for legislative changes aimed at providing relief for small businesses like Bumpas. The senator has pointed out that just three years ago, the average premium for liquor liability insurance was around $7,000. Today? That same policy could run a staggering $70,000. Such a drastic increase can cripple local businesses that make Charleston special.
The Heart of Charleston at Risk
Senator Sutton has expressed concerns that if this trend continues, Charleston’s unique culture and charm could be at risk. With rising costs, many beloved local entities might be replaced by corporate chains that threaten to dilute the city’s distinctive character. It’s not just about losing a bar; it’s about preserving the local flavor that Charleston is known for.
Proposed Solutions to Lessen the Burden
In light of these troubling developments, the state legislature is considering a new bill that aims to expand insurance options and foster increased market competition. By doing so, they hope to lower costs for small businesses, like Bumpas Bar, that are currently struggling. This proposed legislation could be a significant turning point for many in the hospitality industry— and for the community that relies on these vibrant establishments for its social life.
A Fond Farewell to Bumpas Bar
As Bumpas Bar gears up for its final weekend of operation, festivities will be in full swing for Saint Patrick’s Day. It will be a bittersweet celebration for the staff and loyal customers who have enjoyed countless smiles and memories within its walls. Regulars are expected to flood in to say their goodbyes, and tune up for one last round of drinks in a place that has felt like home for so many.
As Charleston prepares to bid farewell to a local favorite, discussions about insurance reform and support for small businesses are more critical than ever. The future of our city is at stake, and it might just depend on how we protect our homegrown institutions from rising costs that threaten to push them out of business.
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Additional Resources
- ABC News 4: Charleston’s Bumpas Bar to Close
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- Live 5 News: Faith Leaders Cite Concerns About CCSO ICE Agreement
- Live 5 News: Berkeley County Investigating Possible Murder-Suicide
- Count on 2: North Charleston Councilmember Pleads Not Guilty
- Wikipedia: Liquor Liability Insurance
Author: STAFF HERE CHARLESTON
The CHARLESTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREcharleston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Charleston, Charleston County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Spoleto Festival USA, Charleston Wine + Food Festival, and the MOJA Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce and the Charleston Museum, plus leading businesses in tourism and maritime industries that power the local economy such as South Carolina Ports Authority and the Charleston Visitor Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREaiken.com, HEREbeaufort.com, HEREchapin.com, HEREcharleston.com, HEREclinton.com, HEREcolumbia.com, HEREgeorgetown.com, HEREgreenwood.com, HEREgreenville.com, HEREhiltonhead.com, HEREirmo.com, HEREmyrtlebeach.com, HEREnewberry.com, HERErockhill.com, HEREspartanburg.com, HEREaustin.com, HEREcollegestation.com, HEREdallas.com, HEREhouston.com, and HEREsanantonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
