The bill amends Section 3-6-1 of the General Laws in Chapter 3-6 entitled "Manufacturing and Wholesale Licenses" to introduce new provisions for manufacturer’s licenses. It allows a manufacturer's license holder to operate a brewery, distillery, or winery and specifies that a separate license is required for each plant. The bill introduces the concept of a "satellite taproom," which is defined as a space that serves alcoholic liquor at retail for consumption on the premises, does not include sleeping accommodations or production equipment, and may not necessarily have a dining room or kitchen. A manufacturer can hold a satellite taproom permit, which allows for the retail sale of alcoholic liquor manufactured within the state to be consumed on the premises of up to two satellite taprooms per manufacturer's license. Each satellite taproom must comply with local zoning and fire safety requirements and hold a local liquor license, with an annual permit fee of $300.

The bill also outlines the conditions under which the manufacturer can sell beverages at wholesale, for consumption on the premises, and for off-premises consumption. It sets limits on the amount of alcohol that can be sold or provided as samples to visitors. The license does not authorize the sale of beverages for delivery outside the state in violation of the law of the place of delivery. The annual fee for the license varies depending on the type of facility and the volume of production, with specific fees for distilleries, breweries, and wineries based on their production levels. The act would take effect upon passage and would allow manufacturers to apply for two satellite taprooms and transport beer, spirits, or wine to these off-premises locations.

Statutes affected:
2786: 3-6-1