The bill proposes the repeal of Section 3-7-19 of the General Laws in Chapter 3-7, which previously restricted the issuance of certain retail liquor licenses (Class B, C, N, and I) based on their proximity to schools and places of worship. Specifically, it eliminates the prohibition on issuing these licenses if there were objections from property owners within 200 feet of the establishment or if the establishment was located within 200 feet of a public, private, or parochial school or a place of public worship.

In its place, the bill introduces a new section, 3-7-19, which addresses objections by adjoining property owners regarding the proximity of retail establishments to schools and churches. The bill also grants city and town councils, as well as boards of licenses, the authority to exempt certain proposed retailer licenses from existing regulations, including Class B, Class BV, Class C, Class I, and Class BL licenses in various cities. This includes specific exemptions for locations in Providence, Central Falls, East Greenwich, and Woonsocket, contingent upon an application process.

The act is set to take effect immediately upon passage.

Statutes affected:
5449: 3-7-19