This bill proposes amendments to Section 3-7-19 of the General Laws, which pertains to the issuance of retail licenses for the sale of beverages. The amendments introduce new considerations for objections based on the proximity of the proposed licensed establishment to schools, churches, and adjoining property owners. Specifically, it prohibits the issuance of Class B, C, N, and I licenses, as well as licenses under § 3-7-16.8, if the owner of the majority of land within 200 feet objects, or if the establishment is within 200 feet of a school or place of worship. However, exemptions are provided for existing license holders prior to January 1, 1978, and in cases where the licensed establishment predates the nearby school or place of worship. Additionally, local boards of licenses in certain cities and towns are granted the authority to exempt proposed retailer Class B, C, or I licenses from these restrictions, provided the property owner is current on local and state taxes.

The bill also outlines specific exemptions for various cities and towns in Rhode Island, allowing local licensing boards to issue Class B, BV, C, I, BX, or BL licenses to retailers at certain locations, as identified by plat and lot numbers. Two insertions are included in the bill, granting the board of licenses of the city of Providence the power to exempt any proposed retailer Class BV license at 94 Carpenter Street, Plat 29, Lot 278, and at 1023 Broad Street, Plat 53, Lot 620. These insertions would enable the issuance of Class BV liquor licenses at these addresses in Providence. The bill is intended to take effect immediately upon passage.

Statutes affected:
3039: 3-7-19