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 or place of worship. The bill clarifies that exemptions to this prohibition do not eliminate the rights of neighboring property owners to object to the issuance of a license.

Additionally, a new section, 3-7-19.1, is introduced, which allows objections from adjoining property owners to block the issuance of licenses if the owner of the greater part of the land within 200 feet of the proposed location files an objection. 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 balance local business interests with community concerns regarding alcohol sales near schools and places of worship. It will take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
6070: 3-7-19