Rhode Island 2025 Regular Session

Rhode Island House Bill H6135

Introduced
3/26/25  

Caption

Allows for the issuance of a Class B liquor license for the property located at 1039 Douglas Avenue in the city of Providence.

Summary

House Bill 6135 seeks to alter the current provisions surrounding the issuance of Class B retail liquor licenses within the state of Rhode Island. Specifically, the bill allows for the issuance of a Class B liquor license for the property located at 1039 Douglas Avenue in Providence. This legislative move is significant as it offers a potential opportunity for local businesses to expand their services and meet consumer demands in the area by enabling them to sell alcoholic beverages legally. The bill amends Section 3-7-19 of the General Laws, which currently sets restrictions based on the proximity of buildings to schools and places of worship. As the existing law stands, objections from nearby property owners within 200 feet can impede the issuance of such licenses, particularly in areas close to schools and churches. This provision for exemptions pertains substantially to maintaining community standards and safety measures regarding alcohol sales in sensitive areas. While the bill's aim is to foster local business interests by easing the process of obtaining liquor licenses, it may invite challenges from community members concerned about the implications of increased alcohol availability. Proponents argue this change promotes economic development and adds vibrancy to neighborhoods, while critics could voice apprehensions regarding public health and safety, especially in areas frequented by families or younger populations. If enacted, HB 6135 contributes to a broader conversation about local governance and autonomy in regulating businesses, giving certain city councils and licensing boards increased authority to decide on exemptions to the distance restrictions tied to liquor licensing. The bill's passage might lead to debates over neighborhood values and the potential for businesses to flourish or the risk of alcohol-related issues in more populated or family-oriented neighborhoods.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI S0989

Allows for the issuance of a Class T liquor license by the town of Jamestown.

RI H5032

Allows for the issuance of a Class T liquor license by the town of Jamestown.

RI S0217

Allows holders of a Class P license to purchase alcoholic beverages from either a retail or wholesale establishment in the State of Rhode Island.

RI H5885

Allows holders of a Class P license to purchase alcoholic beverages from either a retail or wholesale establishment in the State of Rhode Island.

RI S0073

Allows for the holder of a manufacturer's license to be able to sell one one-sixth (1/6) barrel key of malt beverage, produced on the premises, per day.

RI H5929

Prohibits the holding of multiple drivers licenses or identification cards and would change the term "re-constructed salvage" to "rebuilt salvage" for purposes of the Rhode Island salvage law.

RI S0620

Prohibits the holding of multiple drivers licenses or identification cards and would change the term "re-constructed salvage" to "rebuilt salvage" for purposes of the Rhode Island salvage law.

RI H5449

Repeals § 3-7-19 which prohibits retail liquor licenses within two hundred feet (200') of schools and religious institutions.

Similar Bills

RI H6091

Allows Central Falls to exempt the property located at 913-915 Dexter Street, AP 7, Lot 156 from the law that prohibits any proposed retailers’ license of any class located within two hundred feet (200') of the premises of a school or place of worship.

RI H5031

Allows for the issuance of Class BV liquor licenses for the properties located at 94 Carpenter Street and 1023 Broad Street, both in the city of Providence.

RI H6231

Allows for the issuance of a Class B liquor license for the property located at 1441 Mineral Spring Avenue in the town of North Providence.

RI S0756

Allows for the issuance of a Class BV liquor license for the property located at 865 Westminster Street in the city of Providence.

RI H6230

Allows for the issuance of a Class BV liquor license for the property located at 865 Westminster Street in the city of Providence.

RI H5449

Repeals § 3-7-19 which prohibits retail liquor licenses within two hundred feet (200') of schools and religious institutions.

RI S0364

Provides that exemptions to the prohibition of liquor licenses within two hundred feet (200') of schools or places of worship do not eliminate neighboring property owners’ remonstrance rights to object to the license.

RI H6070

Provides that exemptions to the prohibition of liquor licenses within two hundred feet (200') of schools or places of worship do not eliminate neighboring property owners’ remonstrance rights to object to the license.