Oklahoma 2023 Regular Session

Oklahoma Senate Bill SB792

Introduced
2/6/23  

Caption

Alcoholic beverages; clarifying authorizations. Emergency.

Impact

The proposed changes will provide retail outlets with the legal framework to purchase and sell alcoholic beverages, including wine, beer, and spirits. Notably, the amendment permits the hosting of tastings, allowing consumers to sample alcoholic products prior to purchase. This change potentially enhances the commercial viability of these establishments by providing customers with a more interactive purchasing experience, while also supporting local beverage industries and fostering community engagement in responsible consumption.

Summary

Senate Bill 792 seeks to amend Section 2-109 of Title 37A of the Oklahoma Statutes, which pertains to the regulations governing retail spirits licenses. This bill clarifies the authorizations granted to holders of such licenses and includes provisions that allow them to conduct alcohol tastings under specific conditions. The bill is introduced as an emergency measure, thereby intending to take effect immediately upon passage, reflecting a heightened urgency in its implementation.

Contention

Despite its intentions to promote local businesses and clarify existing regulations, the bill may face scrutiny with respect to its public health implications. Concerns may arise regarding how increased access to tastings could influence consumption patterns, particularly among younger demographics. Stakeholders might debate the balance between fostering economic activity and ensuring responsible alcohol use within the community. Additionally, given the emergency declaration, questions regarding the transparency and urgency of the legislative process may be raised.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

OK SB792

Alcoholic beverages; clarifying authorizations. Emergency.

OK SB1233

Alcoholic beverages; clarifying authorizations. Emergency.

OK HB1723

Alcoholic beverages; clarifying authorizations; emergency.

OK SB2001

Alcoholic beverages; allowing licensed employees to sample alcoholic beverages under certain circumstances; specifying amounts. Emergency.

OK SB8

Alcoholic beverages; charitable alcoholic beverage licenses; exempting certain organizations from certain amount of licenses issued each year. Emergency.

OK HB1723

Alcoholic beverages; catering licenses; storage license; on-premise licensee; transfer; emergency.

OK HB3076

Alcoholic beverages; retail spirits license; permitting sampling of alcoholic beverages under certain circumstances; brand labels; prohibited acts; employee sampling training; emergency.

OK SB1094

Alcoholic beverage licenses; allowing certain licensees to sell certain beverages for off-premise consumption. Effective date.

OK SB8

Alcoholic beverages; brewer, winemaker, distiller, and small farm winery; providing for license to host certain off-site events. Emergency.

OK SB1811

Alcoholic beverages; allowing for brewer, winemaker, distiller, and small farm winery license holders to host off-site events. Emergency.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.