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The Oklahoma Supreme Court has invalidated an initiative petition that would call for a statewide vote to change Oklahoma's liquor laws. The petition was struck down by the Supreme Court in a 7-1 decision Tuesday.

The petition was originally filed by the Retail Liquor Association of Oklahoma and would not allow two liquor stores or grocers to sell high proof spirits or wine within 2,500 feet of each other.

The Petition would allow liquor stores to carry grocer items, and would restrict the sale of alcohol to wholesale grocers, super-centers, and retail wine grocery stores.

The Oklahoma Grocers Association challenged the petition, and alleged it was misleading and would unconstitutionally delegate legislative authority. A similar petition is currently pending the the legislature.

The State Senate and the House of Representatives have passed a separate alcohol measure. The Senate Joint Resolution 68, or SJR 68, is a bill to amend the State Liquor Laws and amend that “All beverages that contain alcohol, unless otherwise defined by law, ... be considered alcoholic beverages by this state“ and convert “low-point beer distribution licenses” to “beer distribution licenses”.

The Bill will also allow the sale of wine at wholesale establishments, and open restrictions on Retail liquor licenses to be able to sell “refrigerated and non-refrigerated wine and beer in their original sealed package.” Also, alcohol retailers would be permitted to sell any retail item, which could be purchased at a grocery store or convenience store, as long as it is less than 20 percent of the stores monthly sales.

The bill is currently with the Senate for review, with a goal of being on the November ballot.

Invalidated Petition Summary

SJR 68