The bill amends Section 3-7-19 of the General Laws in Chapter 3-7, which governs "Retail Licenses," by introducing new regulations concerning the issuance of Class B, C, N, and I retail licenses. It establishes that licenses for the sale of alcoholic beverages cannot be granted for locations within 200 feet of any public, private, or parochial school. The bill clarifies that the objection rights of neighboring property owners remain intact, allowing them to file objections to the granting of a license.
Additionally, a new section, 3-7-19.1, is introduced, which specifies that if the owner of the greater part of the land within 200 feet of a proposed license location files an objection, the license cannot be issued. However, this section does not apply to any Class B or C license holder whose license was issued prior to January 1, 1978.
The bill aims to ensure that community concerns regarding alcohol sales near schools and places of worship are considered while regulating the issuance of retail licenses. The act will take effect upon passage.
Statutes affected: 364: 3-7-19