Group asks judge to block Oklahoma alcohol ballot measure

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) – A retail liquor group wants an Oklahoma County judge to block a November ballot measure on whether strong beer and wine can be sold in grocery stores.

The Retail Liquor Association of Oklahoma has filed a lawsuit claiming that the ballot measure's proposed changes are unconstitutional because they would treat liquor-license holders less favorably than supermarkets or convenience stores.

The group wants an injunction to block the Oklahoma State Election Board from scheduling the proposal for a vote in November. A hearing is scheduled Monday before District Judge Aletia Haynes Timmons.

The ballot measure authorizes changes to Oklahoma's alcohol laws beginning in 2018, including allowing the sale of strong, cold beer in grocery and convenience stores. Strong beer currently must be sold in liquor stores.