some cases have introduced their own house brands). Contrary to the fears of some in the political process, the number of drunk-driving arrests and alcohol-related motor vehicle accidents actually dropped in the year after the conversion to the new system. A different type of exception to the three-tier system existed in Oklahoma prior to October 2018, where laws historically mandated a four-tier system for package sales of beer of greater than 3.2% alcohol by weight (4.0% by volume). Brewers in that state were historically been prohibited from selling to distributors; they instead were required to sell to brokers, who in turn would sell to distributors. Following the passage of a voter referendum in 2016, the broker and distributor levels were effectively merged effective on October 1, 2018, resulting in the three-tier system common to the rest of the U.S. Disputes and criticisms Wine and Spirits Wholesalers of America (WSWA), an influential trade organization and lobby group based in Washington, D.C. that works to oppose initiatives to alter the three-tier model, contends that wholesalers not only sell alcohol but also perform state functions and are in the business of encouraging social responsibility concerning alcohol. The National Association of Wine Retailers represents the wine retail industry, advocating for the free movement of wine across state lines. Use in other markets A similar use of a three-tier system is enforced for tobacco products in some jurisdictions. In June 2017, tobacco wholesalers proposed that the three-tier system also be imposed for recreational marijuana in Massachusetts. They argued that this would improve tax collection enforcement. There is no direct equivalent in the United Kingdom, occasioning criticism whereby large distributors (such as supermarkets, etc.) may squeeze local, independent beer retailers. See also Granholm v. Heald – a ruling of the Supreme Court of the United States prohibiting states from discriminating against producers in other states when allowing wine producers to ship their products directly to consumers References External links Bye-Bye Bell's Chicago Reader article about beer distribution laws Support Your Local Brewery - Grassroots partnership of professional trade associations, brewers and beer enthusiasts dedicated to promoting and protecting the legislative and regulatory interests of America’s small, independent and traditional craft brewers. Law of the United States Alcohol law in the United States