The bill amends Section 3-7-16.3 of the General Laws in Chapter 3-7, which pertains to retail licenses for alcoholic beverages. It introduces a new Class T legitimate theater license that allows eligible theaters to sell alcoholic beverages for consumption on their premises during scheduled artistic events. The license permits sales one hour before and after these events, provided they start after noon. The bill specifies that legitimate theaters include nonprofit cultural organizations and for-profit historic theaters located in Newport or the town of Jamestown, expanding the eligibility for this license.
Additionally, the bill clarifies that legitimate theaters can include facility management corporations authorized to manage buildings owned by the Rhode Island Convention Center Authority, as long as they support arts activities and provide regular theatrical productions. The local licensing authority is responsible for issuing Class T licenses, which must comply with local ordinances regarding entertainment. This act will take effect upon passage.
Statutes affected: 5032: 3-7-16.3