Oklahoma’s ballot initiatives can be confusing to those who haven’t studied them. To help voters understand the measures, KTUL has published a guide. Here are some highlights:
State Question 780: Oklahoma Reclassification of Some Drug and Property Crimes as Misdemeanors Initiative
Voting yes would reclassify some low-level drug and property crimes from felonies to misdemeanors. This option would help to ease the burden on state prisons by granting leniency to nonviolent criminals.
Voting no would keep the current laws on this books.
State Question 781: Oklahoma Rehabilitative Programs Fund Initiative
This ballot measure is tied to the previous one, #780. If 780 passes, it would save the state money in incarceration costs. This question is about what to do with that money. Thus, if SQ 780 fails to pass, this question is moot.
Voting yes would redirect those funds to rehabilitative programs, including substance abuse and mental health treatment programs. This is essentially a vote for preventive measures, rather than after-the-fact punishment.
Voting no would keep the money saved through SQ780 in the state’s coffers.
State Question 790: Oklahoma Public Money for Religious Purposes
It is currently unconstitutional in Oklahoma for the state government to spend money for religious purposes. A yes vote would reject that notion, and allowing public money to be spent on religious efforts. For example, voting yes would allow the Ten Commandments monument to be returned to the state Capitol.
Voting no would keep things as they are and would be a vote in support of traditional notions of separation of church and state.
State Question 792: Oklahoma Regulations Governing the Sale of Wine and Beer Amendment
Voting yes means you support changing the laws governing alcohol sales in Oklahoma. If this measure passes, grocery stores and convenience stores will be allowed to sell full-strength beer and wine seven days a week.
Voting no means you wish for the current alcohol laws to remain as they are.
