(a) Any time a building or other structure used as a food service establishment, is rendered uninhabitable by virtue of a casualty including, but not limited to, fire or flood, the food service establishment may, upon approval of the city or town council, provide temporary outdoor dining services for a period of up to eighteen (18) months from the date of approval received from the city or town council, or until the building or structure is rehabilitated and otherwise made fit for occupancy, as long as the location of the temporary outdoor dining area complies with applicable state health and life safety regulations. The temporary outdoor dining service shall be permitted, notwithstanding any municipal ordinance, including zoning or planning regulations to the contrary, and if the municipality has issued a liquor license for the food service establishment, the license may be used in conjunction with the temporary outdoor dining service.
(b) Unless extended by the general assembly, the provisions of this section shall sunset and expire on June 30, 2027.