Senate Bill No. 1044 amends existing laws regarding wine and spirits wholesaler licenses in Oklahoma. The bill allows wholesalers to maintain not more than three self-owned or leased bonded warehouses and introduces new payment methods for transactions. Specifically, it permits wholesalers to accept payments via electronic funds transfer (EFT), while prohibiting cash payments. The bill outlines the conditions under which EFT payments must be initiated and processed, including the requirement for wholesalers to select a third-party payment processing company that allows for easy termination of the agreement. Additionally, the bill specifies that violations of these payment provisions may result in license suspension.

The bill also modifies restrictions on the financial interests of manufacturers and wholesalers in retail operations, clarifying that certain common ownership arrangements are permissible. It prohibits various forms of financial inducements and credit extensions to retailers, while allowing for specific exceptions. Notably, the bill removes the previous prohibition against wholesalers accepting checks or money orders under certain circumstances, such as during temporary service interruptions. The effective date for these changes is set for November 1, 2025.