Group Seeks Wine, Strong Beer Sales At Oklahoma Grocery Stores

A group that supports the sale of strong beer and wine at Oklahoma grocery stores, gas stations and convenience stores is launching a petition drive to place the issue on the November ballot.

The group Oklahomans for Modern Laws filed an initiative petition on Wednesday with the Oklahoma secretary of state's office. The proposed language for the ballot now must be reviewed by the attorney general, and if approved, the group can begin gathering signatures.

Telephone messages left Wednesday with the group's chairman and its attorney were not immediately returned.

Under current Oklahoma law, strong beer and wine can be sold only at liquor stores. Refrigerated beer sold at grocery stores and gas stations cannot exceed 3.2 percent alcohol content.