Requires that applicants for a retail liquor license in the town of Westerly acquire commercial, general-liability, liquor liability and property damage insurance coverage in the amount of $300,000.

## Summary of the Westerly Liquor License Insurance Bill

This bill would require anyone applying for a retail liquor license in the town of Westerly, Rhode Island, to carry at least $300,000 in insurance coverage. Specifically, applicants would need to obtain commercial insurance, general liability insurance, liquor liability insurance, and property damage insurance at that minimum amount. This means that businesses wanting to sell alcohol in Westerly — such as bars, restaurants, or liquor stores — would need to prove they have this insurance in place as part of the licensing process.

The purpose of this requirement is to ensure that Westerly liquor-selling establishments have adequate financial protection in case of accidents, injuries, or property damage that might occur on their premises or as a result of their alcohol sales. Liquor liability insurance, for example, can cover situations where a business serves alcohol to someone who then causes harm to others.

This bill specifically affects business owners and prospective business owners in Westerly who sell or want to sell alcoholic beverages at the retail level. It could increase operating costs for these businesses, since they would need to purchase and maintain the required insurance policies. On the other hand, it could benefit the general public and the town by helping ensure that money is available to cover damages or injuries linked to alcohol-related incidents at these establishments. The bill has passed the Rhode Island House of Representatives and is currently being considered by the Senate Judiciary Committee.