(KIWA Staff Photo)
Lyon County, Iowa (Sioux County Radio) — The Lyon County Sheriff’s Office is partnering with the Iowa Department of Revenue to conduct underage alcohol compliance checks aimed at reducing illegal alcohol sales to minors.
The effort is part of the Iowa Underage Alcohol Enforcement Program, a joint initiative designed to hold employees and liquor-licensed establishments accountable for selling alcohol to underage individuals. Officials say the program encourages responsible sales practices and improves public safety.
Under the program, underage individuals working under law-enforcement supervision will attempt to buy alcohol at licensed establishments throughout Lyon County. Employees who illegally sell alcohol to minors could face citations.
Authorities say compliance checks help reduce risks associated with underage drinking, including impaired driving, crashes, injuries, and alcohol-related violence. The checks also remind businesses of the importance of training employees and following Iowa alcohol laws.
According to the sheriff’s office, criminal penalties for illegally selling alcohol to someone underage can total $645 for an employee and $1,925 if the sale involves a licensee or permit holder, under Iowa Code 123.49(2)(h).
The announcement comes just days after the Sioux Center Police Department announced it had also joined the statewide enforcement effort through the Iowa Department of Revenue.
State officials also continue to promote the Iowa Program for Alcohol Compliance Training, or I-PACT, a free educational program available to employees of liquor-licensed establishments. The training is designed to improve awareness of Iowa alcohol laws and increase voluntary compliance through education and enforcement.
