Rhode Island 2023 Regular Session

Rhode Island Senate Bill S0300

Introduced
2/16/23  

Caption

Zoning Ordinances

Impact

The legislation is designed to support local businesses by formalizing outdoor dining—a practice that gained popularity during the pandemic—as an ongoing feature of dining options in Rhode Island. By preventing municipalities from prohibiting outdoor dining or instituting regulations that excessively limit it, S0300 aims to foster a conducive environment for restaurants recovering from the economic impact of the pandemic. This act also mandates municipal reviews of existing ordinances, reinforcing the commitment to outdoor dining and ensuring local regulations evolve to meet changing business needs.

Summary

Bill S0300, introduced in the Rhode Island General Assembly, aims to amend current zoning ordinances to provide a moratorium on the enforcement of local statutes and regulations that hinder food service establishments from altering their operations in response to COVID-19 emergency measures. This moratorium specifically applies to modifications related to outdoor dining, allowing restaurants more flexibility to adapt their services without being penalized, in line with public safety directives from state authorities. The moratorium is set to remain effective until December 31, 2023, or until terminated by a joint resolution of the assembly.

Contention

While supporters argue that S0300 will enhance economic recovery for food service establishments and provide them with the needed leeway to operate flexibly, some critics may contend that it could lead to disruptions in local governance and planning. There is an apprehension that the moratorium may encroach upon municipal rights to regulate land use and zoning, thereby imposing a state-level directive that may not align with specific local contexts. The balance between facilitating business recovery and maintaining local regulatory authority may be a significant point of debate as the bill progresses.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI H5264

Zoning Ordinances

RI S2028

Establishes standards governing the municipal regulation of outdoor dining at food service establishments.

RI H7064

Establishes standards governing the municipal regulation of outdoor dining at food service establishments.

RI H6483

Outdoor Dining Act

RI S0683

Zoning Ordinances

RI H5938

Zoning Ordinances

RI H6638

Zoning Ordinances

RI H7095

Zoning Ordinances

RI S1006

Zoning Ordinances

RI S2134

Small Businesses -- Zoning Ordinances

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