The bill amends Section 3-7-19 of the General Laws in Chapter 3-7, which governs "Retail Licenses," by introducing new provisions related to the issuance of certain retail licenses (Class B, C, N, and I) based on their proximity to schools and places of worship. It establishes that licenses cannot be issued within 200 feet of any public, private, or parochial school or a place of public worship if a majority landowner within that distance files an objection. Additionally, in East Providence, Class A licenses cannot be issued within 500 feet of these establishments.

The bill also allows local boards of licenses to grant exemptions, providing flexibility in issuing licenses despite proximity objections. These exemptions can apply to existing licenses that predate the law or specific zoning districts, with detailed descriptions of applicable areas in cities like Providence, Newport, and Cranston. Specifically, the bill grants the board of licenses in Providence the authority to exempt a proposed Class BV liquor license for the property located at 865 Westminster Street, Plat 029, Lot 136 of the applicable city of Providence tax assessment map, following an application process. This provision aims to facilitate the issuance of the license for that specific location. The bill will take effect immediately upon passage.

Statutes affected:
6230: 3-7-19