Allows manufacturer-wineries to sell up to three (3) drinks of wine for on-site consumption or three (3) bottles of wine for off-site consumption or three (3) bottles of wine for off-site consumption.
Impact
The modifications introduced by H7220 are expected to stimulate the local wine industry by allowing greater flexibility in how manufacturer-wineries can operate. This bill amends Chapter 3-6 of the General Laws relating to manufacturing and wholesale licenses, impacting existing statutes on how alcoholic beverages may be sold within the state. The increased allowances for consumption and sales are anticipated to draw more visitors to local wineries, potentially increasing tourism and local economic growth stemming from the beverage industry.
Summary
House Bill H7220 primarily revises the regulations surrounding the sale of alcoholic beverages specifically for manufacturer-wineries in Rhode Island. It allows these establishments to provide up to three drinks of wine for on-site consumption to visitors per day, with each drink defined as five ounces. Furthermore, it enables manufacturer-wineries to sell three bottles of wine (750 ml each) for off-premises consumption. This bill aims to enhance the tasting and sale opportunities for local wineries, supporting their business models while maintaining certain regulatory guidelines.
Contention
While the bill seems to provide beneficial adjustments for winery operations, it also opens discussions regarding the regulation of alcohol sales. Proponents argue that the changes will modernize and make the regulations more applicable to current consumer behaviors and trends in the alcohol industry. However, opponents could raise concerns over the potential for increased alcohol consumption and its associated risks. The balancing act between promoting local businesses and ensuring responsible alcohol consumption remains a critical point of debate as the bill progresses.
Joint Resolution Creating A Special Joint Legislative Commission To Study And Provide Recommendations To Protect Our Environment And Natural Resources From Plastic Bottle Waste (creates A 16 Member Joint Commission To Study And Provide Recommendations To Protect Our Environment From Plastic Bottle Waste, And Who Would Report Back To The General Assembly By February 28, 2024, And Expire On June 30, 2024.)
Joint Resolution Creating A Special Joint Legislative Commission To Study And Provide Recommendations To Protect Our Environment And Natural Resources From Plastic Bottle Waste (creates An 18 Member Special Joint Legislative Commission Whose Purpose It Would Be To Study And Provide Recommendations To Protect Our Environment From Plastic Bottle Waste/report Back To The General Assembly No Later Than 6/10/24 And Expire On 6/30/24.)
Joint Resolution Making An Appropriation Of $750,000 To The Rhode Island School For Progressive Education Over Three Fiscal Years (this Joint Resolution Would Authorize The Appropriation Of The Total Sum Of $750,000 To The Rhode Island School Of Progressive Education, A Period Of Over Three Fiscal Years, To Be Distributed In Three (3) Equal Installments.)
House Resolution Making An Appropriation Of $180,000 For The Rhode Island State Conservation Committee And Its Three Conservation Districts (this Resolution Would Authorize The Appropriation Of The Sum Of $180,000 To The Ri State Conservation Committee And Its Three Conservation Districts.)
Relative to tenant and contract manufacturers of beer, wine, and liquor; allowing pharmacists to administer influenza, COVID-19, and other FDA licensed vaccines without explicit approval from the general court; and, restricting the purchase of real property on or around military installations.