The bill introduces the "Outdoor Dining Act" as a new chapter (Chapter 24.7) to Title 45 of the General Laws, which pertains to towns and cities. The act defines key terms such as "food service establishment," "outdoor dining," "outdoor dining area," and "restaurant," and sets forth regulations for food service establishments that offer outdoor dining. These establishments must comply with all accessibility requirements for public accommodations, as well as adhere to the Rhode Island food code, fire safety code, and building code. Additionally, outdoor dining structures on private property that are inspected by February 15, 2024, and found to be in compliance with these codes will be deemed approved and will not require further governmental action for alterations or modifications.

The act also outlines the authority of cities and towns to regulate outdoor dining. Municipalities may adopt ordinances that limit outdoor dining on public property, limit capacity, and require barriers next to parking lots or roadways. However, they are prohibited from banning outdoor dining outright, limiting the time of year it may be offered, restricting operations between 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m., or imposing new parking capacity standards that exceed those in existence prior to March 1, 2020. The bill is set to take effect upon passage, establishing standards for the municipal regulation of outdoor dining at food service establishments.