In 16 years the Saferide program has provided 100,000 cab rides home for those who've had a few too many drinks at the bar.

But Barb Mercer-President of the Dane County Tavern League- is warning it could be last call for Saferide if they don't see an increase in donations. "At this point we have approximately two months of funding left to keep the program running."

Mercer says one problem is the use of Saferide has dramatically increased. "It was originally established to help patrons in a pinch."

The system is being abused. "People will use it 4, 5, 6 times a week."

Mercer says they've been monitoring the abuse and might have to cut some people off. "It seems that people think they have the right to go out and get drunk and that we're going to take them home. This is not what the program was originally designated for."

"Has there been some abuse? Over the years probably," admits Rick Nesvacil, General Manager of Madison Taxi.

He says they provide 80-90 Saferides a month, and while there are some repeat users, he says that's what the program is for.

Nesvacil thinks the funding problem has more to do with the lack of contributions coming from the bars. "I think the smoking ban had something to do with it. There's always a consequence for lack of revenue."

To get a Saferide cab, the patron needs the bartender to call the cab and give them a voucher. The bar pays $3 for each voucher. The cab company provides a discounted fare, and the Saferide program pays the cabs the difference.

Mercer says fewer bars are participating. "They do not have the money to buy the voucher."

Everyone agrees the program needs to stay in place. "I would hate to see what happens (if it ends). I'd hate to see the DUI's going back up."

"Do we want to see it go away? No. It just puts more people on the road who shouldn't be driving and that affects my drivers. We really want to make sure it stays in place," says Nesvacil.

Mercer says they are applying for a $10,000 grant from the state, and they have a major fundraiser set for January.