(SPOKANE) - The Washington State Liquor Control Board regularly conducts compliance checks of area 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.

Last year, Liquor Enforcement officers conducted more than 6,500 checks statewide. Overall, the state compliance rate was 84 percent. The LCB hopes to raise the statewide compliance rate to 90 percent this decade and is committed to conducting increasing numbers of compliance checks.

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.