The bill proposes the repeal of Section 3-7-19 of the General Laws in Chapter 3-7, which currently restricts the issuance of certain retail liquor licenses (Class B, C, N, and I) based on their proximity to schools and places of worship. Specifically, it eliminates the prohibition against issuing these licenses if there are objections from property owners within 200 feet or if the establishment is located within 200 feet of a public, private, or parochial school or a place of worship.

In addition to the repeal, the bill introduces a new section titled "Objection by adjoining property owners Proximity to schools and churches," which does not retain the previous limitations. It also grants various city and town councils, as well as boards of licenses, the authority to exempt specific proposed retailer licenses from existing regulations, particularly in cities like Providence, Central Falls, and North Providence. These exemptions are contingent upon an application process, allowing local governing bodies to assess and approve licenses based on their discretion.

The act is set to take effect immediately upon passage.

Statutes affected:
2630: 3-7-19