The bill amends Section 3-5-11 of the General Laws in Chapter 3-5 entitled "Licenses Generally" to update the licensing regulations for chain stores. It introduces a new Class B-W license and specifies that certain licenses, including the new Class B-W, cannot be granted, issued, or transferred to any "chain store organization." The definition of a "chain store organization" is expanded to include various common practices among liquor license holders, such as coordinated purchases, management, advertising, marketing strategies, pricing, and shared ownership or control features. The bill also empowers the department to impose fines, revoke or suspend licenses, and issue cease and desist orders against violating chain store entities.

Additionally, the bill adds a new section, 3-7-30, to Chapter 3-7 of the General Laws entitled "Retail Licenses," which establishes the Class B-W license. This license allows grocery stores, markets, or convenience stores to sell malt beverages or wine for off-premises consumption in sealed packages or containers. The annual fee for a Class B-W license is set between five hundred dollars ($500) and one thousand dollars ($1,000), prorated to the year ending December 1 of every calendar year. The act is set to take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
5415: 3-5-11