The Sioux Center Police Department is partnering with the Iowa Department of Revenue’s Alcohol and Tax Compliance Division to conduct underage alcohol compliance checks in the community.
According to the department, the effort is part of the Iowa Underage Alcohol Enforcement Program, a joint initiative aimed at reducing and deterring illegal alcohol sales to minors.
How the Compliance Checks Work
During the compliance checks, underage individuals working under the supervision of law enforcement officers will enter liquor-licensed establishments and attempt to purchase alcohol products. Employees who illegally sell alcohol to someone underage may be cited.
The program is designed to encourage responsible alcohol sales practices among businesses that hold liquor licenses.
Officials say compliance checks help reduce underage drinking and its potential consequences, including impaired driving, traffic accidents, violence, and injuries linked to alcohol misuse.
Focus on Education and Prevention
The Iowa Department of Revenue also offers free Iowa Program for Alcohol Compliance Training, known as I-PACT, for employees at liquor-licensed establishments.
According to the release, the training focuses on educating alcohol sellers and servers about Iowa liquor laws and promoting voluntary compliance through education and enforcement.
The release states that I-PACT certification may also provide an affirmative defense against certain civil penalties if an employee illegally sells or serves alcohol to an underage person.
Potential Penalties
Authorities say criminal penalties for an employee who illegally sells alcohol to an underage person are $645. Penalties can increase to $1,925 if the illegal sale is made by the licensee or permittee.
The Sioux Center Police Department says the compliance checks are intended to remind businesses of the importance of following Iowa alcohol laws and properly training employees.
