The bill amends Section 3-7-19 of the General Laws in Chapter 3-7, which governs "Retail Licenses," by establishing new provisions regarding the issuance of Class B, C, N, and I retail licenses. It prohibits the issuance of these licenses for the sale of alcoholic beverages in buildings located within 200 feet of any public, private, or parochial school or place of worship if a property owner within that distance files an objection with the licensing authority. This provision aims to empower neighboring property owners to object to new licenses, even when exemptions to the proximity restrictions are granted.

Additionally, the bill introduces a new section, 3-7-19.1, which specifies that this objection process does not apply to Class B or C license holders whose licenses were issued prior to January 1, 1978. The act clarifies that the existing remonstrance rights of neighboring property owners are preserved, even in cases where exemptions to the proximity restrictions are applicable.

The act is set to take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
2332: 3-7-19