A state-imposed moratorium on local zoning laws that prohibit outdoor dining at Rhode Island restaurants has been extended. The action was taken to send a lifeline to an industry that was decimated by the coronavirus pandemic. Governor Dan McKee signed a bill into law on Thursday which allows restaurants to continue outdoor dining until February 15th, 2024. The moratorium was set to expire on Saturday. State Senator Alana DiMario and Representative Carol Hagan McEntee say they are continuing to pursue making the outdoor dining rule permanent.
“With the warm weather coming, our small-businesses deserve clarity and certainty,” said Senator DiMario (D-Dist. 36, Narragansett, North Kingstown, New Shoreham). “By passing this extension, we ensure restaurants can plan for this spring and summer as we continue to work with local leaders and small business owners to make outdoor dining permanent.”
"Passing this bill provides a window of relief while Senator DiMario and I work with all the stakeholders, including the hospitality association, the league of cities and towns, and individual business owners, to find a long-term solution to keep outdoor dining going strong,” said Representative McEntee (D-Dist. 33, South Kingstown, Narragansett).
Both lawmakers say they would like to make the extension, permanent.
(Photo by ANDREJ IVANOV/AFP via Getty Images)