Oklahoma Capitol Alcohol Ban Proposed After Accusations

Oklahoma Capitol Alcohol Ban Proposal Sparks Senate Dispute

An Oklahoma Capitol alcohol ban proposal is drawing sharp reactions at the State Capitol after a lawmaker accused colleagues of drinking while on the job.

State Senator Shane Jett has filed legislation that would prohibit the possession or consumption of alcohol inside the Oklahoma State Capitol. Jett says the bill was prompted by what he described as inappropriate behavior by lawmakers during the final day of last year’s legislative session.

Oklahoma Capitol alcohol ban tied to workplace conduct

Jett claims some lawmakers were intoxicated while conducting official business, though he has not named individuals. He says the Oklahoma Capitol alcohol ban is meant to establish clear standards of conduct in a public workplace funded by taxpayers.

The proposed ban would apply to legislators, staff, and visitors inside the Capitol building.

Senate leadership rejects allegations

Senate President Pro Tempore Lonnie Paxton pushed back strongly, calling Jett’s claims baseless and describing the accusations as “childish rhetoric.” Paxton says there is no evidence supporting claims of widespread misconduct.

Legislative leaders note that the Capitol already operates under workplace conduct policies, though alcohol consumption is not explicitly banned under current law.

Debate expected during legislative session

Similar proposals in other states have drawn mixed reactions, according to legislative research from the National Conference of State Legislatures. Supporters argue bans clarify expectations, while critics say such measures can be politically motivated.

The Oklahoma Capitol alcohol ban proposal is expected to be debated when lawmakers return for the upcoming legislative session.

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