Cheers! Oklahoma laws in 2022 changing how you drink

The 2022 regular session wrapped up May 27, with several bills signed into law that will change how Oklahomans drink alcohol.

• SB 169 modifies language related to cocktails-to-go by expanding the definition of an original container to include manufactured mixed drinks, including canned cocktails.
• The container must be secured with a tamper-evident lid or cap by the original manufacturer of the mixed drink.
• signed into law by Gov. Stitt May 26
• goes into effect on November 1, 2022

“The COVID-19 pandemic has devastated Oklahoma’s hospitality businesses, and it will take years for them to fully recover,” said Kristi Brown, Distilled Spirits Council of the United States Senior Director of State Government Relations. “Cocktails to-go has already proven to be a critical part of survival for businesses in many states across the U.S., and Oklahoma businesses deserve the same opportunity.

• SB 269 authorizes someone selling wine, beer, or cocktails to-go to offer to-go drinks at a different price than on-premises drinks. It also authorizes certain social media exchanges.
• signed into law by Gov. Stitt May 20

“We are excited to see the passage of new alcohol-related bills this session, which will benefit Oklahoma businesses and beer distributors by promoting workforce growth, ultimately strengthening the state’s economy,” said Lisette Barnes, president of the Oklahoma Beer Alliance. “We’re thankful for the support and partnership of Oklahoma legislators throughout this process and are excited to see these new laws continue to strengthen businesses in Oklahoma.”

• SB 1708 will allow grocery stores and convenience stores to lower the age for unloading and stocking beer to 16 years old.
• signed into law by Gov. Stitt April 25
• In effect 90 days after session adjourns
• SB 1749 allows licensed golf courses and country clubs to sell beer in sealed original packages for on-premise consumption beyond the two-person limit, effective immediately.
• signed by Gov. Stitt April 29

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• SB 1784 allows licensed beer distributors and wine and spirits wholesalers to hire employees under the age of 21 as long as the employee is at least 18, is accompanied by a coworker who is at least 21, and enters for the sole purpose of merchandising or delivering product to the licensee.
• went into effect immediately following Gov. Stitt’s signature April 25,

“With staffing shortages prevalent across the nation, these bills are critical to ensure Oklahoma beer distributors and retailers have access to additional resources to help relieve some of the burdens brought on by labor shortages,” said Jason Hall, senior general manager of AB One Oklahoma. “By lowering the age for delivering, unloading and merchandising alcohol products, the industry in Oklahoma will continue to be strong and competitive. As we look ahead, the Oklahoma Beer Alliance will continue to advocate for common sense laws that help the state’s economy thrive.”

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