The bill amends Section 3-7-19 of the General Laws in Chapter 3-7, which governs "Retail Licenses," to modify the restrictions on the issuance of certain retail licenses for the sale of alcoholic beverages in proximity to schools and places of worship. Specifically, it stipulates that Retailers’ Class B, C, N, and I licenses, as well as any license provided for in § 3-7-16.8, cannot be issued within 200 feet of any building if the majority landowner within that radius objects, nor within 200 feet of any public, private, or parochial school or place of worship. An exception is made for East Providence, where Class A licenses cannot be issued within 500 feet of such establishments. The bill also clarifies the definition of "private school" and provides exemptions for licenses issued before January 1, 1978, or for transfers where the establishment predates the nearby school or place of worship.

Additionally, the bill empowers local licensing boards in various cities and towns, including Providence, Newport, and Bristol, to grant exemptions from these proximity restrictions for proposed retailer Class B, C, or I licenses in designated business districts or specific locations. The bill introduces new legal language that allows local authorities to manage licensing more flexibly, while no deletions from current law are indicated. The exemptions are contingent upon an application process, and the bill aims to support local economic development by facilitating the establishment of retail alcohol outlets in specific areas, reflecting a legislative intent to address community needs regarding alcohol retailing.

Statutes affected:
6091: 3-7-19