Alcohol debate in Oklahoma turns testy after Indian comment

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) — A Republican state lawmaker said Thursday that a plan to expand beer and wine sales in Oklahoma would disproportionally affect Native Americans because they are "predisposed to alcoholism."

The comment from Rep. Todd Russ of Cordell during a debate over the measure, which passed on a 61-30 vote, drew a sharp rebuke from the chairman of the House Native American Caucus.

The resolution calls for a statewide vote on proposed changes to the Oklahoma Constitution needed to allow wine and cold, strong beer sales in grocery and convenience stores.

http://www.tbo.com/health/alcohol-debate-in-oklahoma-turns-testy-after-indian-comment-ap_health27ee52ca8f4a40938b84ae7e952b0f71