RI
Rhode Island Senate Bill S0364

Rhode Island 2025 Regular Session

Rhode Island Senate Bill S0364

Introduced
2/21/25  

Caption

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.

Impact

The enactment of S0364 is expected to have a significant impact on local alcohol licensing procedures in Rhode Island. By ensuring that neighboring property owners retain the right to voice objections even when a license is granted under exceptions, the bill aims to enhance community control over local alcohol sales. This could potentially lead to more regulatory scrutiny and increased involvement from local residents in matters that directly affect their neighborhoods, particularly in areas near schools and places of worship where community sensitivities are heightened.

Summary

Bill S0364 addresses the regulations surrounding the issuance of liquor licenses, specifically focusing on the objections from neighboring property owners regarding the proximity of liquor-selling establishments to schools and places of worship. The bill amends existing laws to clarify that exemptions granted for liquor licenses within two hundred feet of these institutions do not negate the right of nearby property owners to object to the granting of such licenses. This amendment aims to reinforce the role of local stakeholders in the decision-making process related to alcohol sales in their neighborhoods.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding the bill include the balance between facilitating business interests and addressing community concerns. Proponents may argue that it provides necessary protections for communities, ensuring that their voices are heard against potential disturbances or moral implications of having liquor stores in close proximity to places of education or worship. On the other hand, opponents might contend that this could complicate the process for retailers seeking licenses, potentially stifling local businesses by making it overly burdensome to navigate community objections.

Latest S0364 Activity

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI H5032

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

RI S0989

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 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 H6135

Allows for the issuance of a Class B liquor license for the property located at 1039 Douglas Avenue 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 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 H5449

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

RI S0917

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