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 also provides exemptions for certain license holders and allows for exemptions to be granted by the board of licenses in certain cities and towns.

The bill specifies that retailers' Class B, C, N, and I licenses, as well as any license provided for in § 3-7-16.8, cannot be issued to authorize the sale of beverages in any building where the owner of the greater part of the land within 200 feet of any point of the building files an objection to the granting of the license. It also prohibits the sale of beverages in any building within 200 feet of the premises of any public, private, or parochial school or a place of public worship. However, there are exemptions for Class B or C license holders whose license was issued prior to January 1, 1978, and for objections or disapproval of the transfer of a Class B or C license where the location of the licensed establishment predates the location of the school or place of worship. The bill also grants the board of licenses in certain cities and towns the authority to exempt proposed retailer Class B, C, or I licenses from these provisions.

Statutes affected:
1019: 3-7-19