The bill amends Section 3-7-19 of the General Laws in Chapter 3-7, "Retail Licenses," to establish new regulations regarding the issuance of certain retail licenses based on their proximity to schools and places of worship. It specifies that Class B, C, N, and I licenses cannot be issued if an objection is filed by the owner of the majority of land within 200 feet of the proposed location, nor can they be issued within 200 feet of any public, private, or parochial school or place of worship. In East Providence, Class A licenses are further restricted from being issued within 500 feet of these establishments. The bill also clarifies the definition of a private school and provides exemptions for existing license holders and specific locations in various municipalities.

Additionally, the bill empowers local boards of licenses in cities such as Providence, Newport, and Cranston to grant exemptions from these proximity restrictions upon application. It includes provisions for specific areas where exemptions may apply and outlines conditions for license transfers and compliance with local tax obligations. Notably, the bill allows the board of licenses in North Providence to exempt a proposed retailer Class BV license for a specific location at 1706 Mineral Spring Avenue, Plat 19, Lot 326 of the applicable town of North Providence tax assessment map. The act is set to take effect immediately upon passage.

Statutes affected:
3203: 3-7-19