2020 -- H 7193

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LC003665

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     STATE OF RHODE ISLAND

IN GENERAL ASSEMBLY

JANUARY SESSION, A.D. 2020

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A N   A C T

RELATING TO BUSINESSES AND PROFESSIONS -- SHOWS AND EXHIBITIONS

     Introduced By: Representatives Donovan, and Speakman

     Date Introduced: January 22, 2020

     Referred To: House Municipal Government

     It is enacted by the General Assembly as follows:

     SECTION 1. Chapter 5-22 of the General Laws entitled "Shows and Exhibitions" is

hereby amended by adding thereto the following section:

     5-22-1.2. Live entertainment -- Town of Bristol.

     The town council of the town of Bristol is authorized to license, regulate, or prohibit "live

entertainment" in the town of Bristol, including, but not limited to, live performances of music or

sound by individuals, bands, musicians, disc jockeys, dancing, or karaoke, with or without

charge, provided that "incidental entertainment" be permitted as of right, and no license shall be

required. "Incidental entertainment" means background music provided at a restaurant, bar,

nightclub, supper club, or similar establishment, limited to the following format:

     (1) Live music performance limited to no more than a maximum of three (3) acoustic

instruments that shall not be amplified by any means, electronic or otherwise; or

     (2) Prerecorded music or streamed music played over a permanently installed sound

system. If a bar or restaurant includes incidental entertainment, it cannot charge a cover charge;

shall not allow dancing by patrons of the establishment; cannot employ flashing, laser, or strobe

lights; and the maximum volume, irrespective of the format, is limited solely to the boundaries of

the premises at all times, and shall permit audible conversation among patrons of the

establishment.

     SECTION 2. This act shall take effect upon passage.

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EXPLANATION

BY THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL

OF

A N   A C T

RELATING TO BUSINESSES AND PROFESSIONS -- SHOWS AND EXHIBITIONS

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     This act would authorize the town of Bristol to regulate live entertainment.

     This act would take effect upon passage.

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