(OLYMPIA) - Liquor and Tobacco Enforcement Officers with the Washington State Liquor Control Board conducted 33 compliance checks at licensed businesses in Benton, Grant, Kittitas and Spokane counties during September. The results by county are listed below.

The WSLCB conducts more than 6,500 statewide compliance checks annually at businesses licensed to sell alcohol on and off premises. These businesses include spirits, beer and wine restaurants, large grocery chains, neighborhood markets, taverns, wine bars and sports/entertainment facilities. Compliance checks have been shown to be an effective tool to reduce the sale of alcohol to minors.

Liquor Enforcement Officers conduct compliance checks assisted by minor operatives. These individuals are from 18 to 20 years old. They must present their true identification if asked by a clerk. However, they may attempt to be evasive if asked their age but not asked for their I.D.

Liquor Enforcement Officers are empowered to issue Administrative Violation Notices to businesses that fail compliance checks. Fines or temporary license suspensions can be issued depending on the severity of the infraction or the frequency with which a business has been cited. Clerks who sell can receive a criminal citation, as well.