Bar security staff now required to get criminal record checks: N.S. government

A person holds a beer at a Halifax bar. (CTV News Atlantic)

All security staff at Nova Scotia bars will now be required to get criminal record checks and submit them to their employers.

The Nova Scotia government says these changes, which take effect on Monday, were developed in response to “incidents involving bar security employees and patrons.” They are part of broader amendments to the Liquor Control Act, according to a news release.

Other changes include monetary penalties for liquor licence infractions that range from $500-to-$3,000 for first offences to $2,000-to-$10,000 for third or subsequent offences.

Another new regulation will allow employees under the age of 19 to serve but not pour alcohol in lounges to “address ongoing labour shortages.”

“Nova Scotians deserve to feel safe when they go out, and these changes ensure there are clear, enforceable standards for those responsible for maintaining order in licensed establishments,” said Jill Balser, minister of Service Nova Scotia, in the release. “We are setting consistent expectations for training, conduct and accountability, while also supporting an industry that continues to face labour challenges.”

On Dec. 24, 2022, Alexander Pishori Levy, a bouncer at a Halifax bar, put Ryan Sawyer in a chokehold after Sawyer and his brother were kicked out of the establishment. Sawyer later died and Levy was convicted of manslaughter, although he is appealing the ruling.

Sawyer’s family called the incident a “failure of government” and Nova Scotia pledged to pass regulations for bouncers.

“The work that was underway under the department was very much influenced by what happened to Ryan Sawyer,” Balser previously said.

“Knowing what the families have gone through, we want to make sure that what we brought forward is significant.”

In 2024, Nova Scotia said all licensed bars and restaurants must ensure their employees have completed a responsible alcohol service course.

In 2023, the province also required security staff at late-night bars to have criminal record checks and security training.

With files from CTV News Atlantic’s Callum Smith

For more Nova Scotia news, visit our dedicated provincial page