The bill amends Section 3-7-19 of the General Laws in Chapter 3-7, which governs "Retail Licenses," to address concerns regarding the proximity of licensed establishments to schools and places of worship. It stipulates that Retailers’ Class B, C, N, and I licenses 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 institutions. 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 municipalities, including Providence, Newport, and others, 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 for these exemptions and specifies the authority of local boards and councils to manage licensing more flexibly. Notably, it includes a provision for the city of Providence to exempt a proposed retailer Class B license for a specific location at 1039 Douglas Avenue, reflecting a targeted approach to facilitate new retail opportunities while maintaining community standards. The bill will take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
6135: 3-7-19