OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) — Debate in the Oklahoma House over a plan to expand beer and wine sales in Oklahoma turned testy when a legislator opposed to it said it will disproportionally affect Native Americans.
The plan calls for a statewide vote on proposed constitutional changes needed to allow wine and strong beer sales in grocery and convenience stores.
During debate Thursday on the bill, Republican Rep. Todd Russ of Cordell said Native Americans process alcohol differently than other races and are "predisposed to alcoholism."
The comments drew an angry response from Tulsa Republican Rep. Dan Kirby, the chairman of the House Native American Caucus, who called the comments out of order.
It passed on a 61-30 vote and heads to a conference committee for more deliberation.