Supporters of proposed legislation to establish training standards for bouncers testified Wednesday before the Interim Joint Committee on Licensing, Occupations, and Administrative Regulations.
Christopher McKinney’s widower, Nick Clark, said regulations are needed to prevent deaths like ones that happened in Georgia, Tennessee and Pennsylvania, along with his spouse’s in Louisville. McKinney died from blunt force trauma to the head following an interaction with a bouncer at a bar in 2020.
Christopher’s Law would require bouncers to receive training developed by the Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control on de-escalation tactics, interpersonal communication, threat mitigation and more. Advocacy has been a true grassroots effort, Clark said.
“Just like our police force, military, firefighters, lifeguards, teachers and basically any other profession, has to have training,” he said. “Bouncers who are hired to protect the most vulnerable in an alcohol driven environment do not have to have any training or special skills. Most are hired by word of mouth, physical stature and through social media.”
The hearing was not part of the special legislative session that began on Wednesday to address issues related to flooding in Eastern Kentucky. Instead, it was part of the interim period when lawmakers consider proposals for the next regular session that starts in January.
Senate Minority Floor Leader Morgan McGarvey (D-Louisville) and Rep. Lisa Willner (D-Louisville) have both sponsored similar legislation on training bouncers in the past.
McGarvey told the committee that Clark and others have been strong advocates and have helped craft the legislation over a couple of years, taking suggestions from everyone from retailers to the owners of bars and restaurants.
McGarvey asked committee members to think of all the different professions that come in front of the committee.
“There is far more regulation, licensing and oversight of someone who is giving you a pedicure, of someone who is cutting your hair,” he said. “There is nothing related to bouncers.”
Sen. John Schickel (R-Union), co-chair of the committee, offered condolences.
“First of all, I just want to extend my sincere sympathy on behalf of myself and this entire committee for your loss,” he said. “I can only imagine the pain you are going through. This is very recently. I didn’t realize how recent it is.”
Schickel said he used to be a part-time bouncer when he was a police officer.
“And you’re right, they get thrown into situations, very dicey situations, with little or no training,” he said. “You’re very right about that.”
Clark’s father also testified during the meeting. He called McKinney’s death senseless and a preventable tragedy. He said it could happen to anyone.
“Christopher was the kindest, most loving and thoughtful human being you could ever meet, and our family is heartbroken and miss him every day,” Kenny Clark said.
Rep. Adam Koenig (R-Erlanger), co-chair of the committee, expressed sympathy to McKinney’s relatives, and asked for confirmation that organizations on a list given to committee members approved of the proposed legislation and changes made to it. They include the Kentucky Restaurant Association, the ACLU of Kentucky and other groups.
Nick Clark responded they have seen the new language and are supportive of the bill.
