This bill amends Section 3-7-19 of the General Laws in Chapter 3-7 entitled "Retail Licenses". The amendment adds new language that allows for objections by adjoining property owners and proximity to schools and churches when issuing certain retail licenses. It specifies that certain licenses shall not be issued for the sale of beverages in buildings where the owner of the greater part of the land within 200 feet of any point of the building files an objection, or in buildings within 200 feet of any public, private, or parochial school or place of public worship. It also adds that in the city of East Providence, certain licenses shall not be issued for buildings within 500 feet of any public, private, or parochial school or place of public worship. The amendment also includes provisions for exemptions from these requirements for certain licenses in the cities of Providence and Newport, and the towns of Warren and Bristol.

This bill amends current law to allow certain boards of licenses in various cities and towns in Rhode Island to exempt proposed retailer Class B licenses from certain provisions. The exemptions apply to specific locations and are subject to application and approval by the respective boards of licenses. The bill also specifies that the exemptions will only be effective if the proposed license holder and property owner are current in the payment of local and state taxes.

Statutes affected:
5289: 3-7-19