The bill amends Section 3-7-19 of the General Laws, which pertains to the issuance of retail licenses for the sale of beverages. It specifies that Retailers’ Class B, C, N, and I licenses, as well as licenses under § 3-7-16.8, cannot be issued within 200 feet of any building if the majority landowner objects or within 200 feet of any school or place of worship, with an exception for the city of East Providence where Class A licenses cannot be issued within 500 feet of such institutions. The bill clarifies the definition of "private school" and provides exemptions for licenses issued before 1978 or for establishments predating nearby schools or places of worship. Additionally, it allows for exemptions in certain areas of Providence, Newport, Warren, and Bristol, where the board of licenses may grant licenses despite proximity restrictions after an application process. The bill includes insertions of new provisions and definitions but does not indicate any deletions from current law.

Furthermore, the bill details exemptions for retailer Class B and other specified licenses in various cities and towns, including Providence, Middletown, East Greenwich, and others. These exemptions are specific to certain tax assessor plats and lots, allowing local boards and councils to issue licenses despite general proximity restrictions to schools and places of worship. The bill lists exact locations where exemptions can be applied, such as 100-102 Hope Street in Providence, and includes provisions for the transfer of Class B licenses in Cranston with certain restrictions. The bill also grants the Providence board of licenses the authority to exempt proposed retailer Class B or Class BV licenses at 225 Waterman Street from the typical proximity restrictions. The bill's insertions provide for new exemptions and clarify that it would take effect immediately upon passage, aiming to facilitate the licensing of retail establishments near schools or churches where it is normally restricted.

Statutes affected:
5289: 3-7-19