Compliance Checks

These projects help ensure alcoholic beverage retailers, especially those near campus, are checking IDs when anyone attempts to purchase alcohol.  They are one of the best, most proven methods for preventing underage drinking because when stores are worried about receiving citations, clerks are more likely to abide by the law.  If stores are checking ID and selling less to those under 21, underage students are drinking less, which results in fewer alcohol-related problems.  Properly conducted, compliance checks send a message to retailers that they must follow the laws with regard to selling alcohol.  If they refuse to comply with the laws, they will face stiff penalties, including fines and the possible loss of their liquor license.  If done routinely, compliance checks can dramatically reduce illegal alcohol sales to minors.   

Law Enforcement

• Are you targeting the retail or package stores around the campus?
• Are you contacting the university to request students to serve as “decoys” for your activities?

 Students

• Contact your local enforcement agency to determine who conducts compliance checks (police, sheriff, Alcohol Beverage Commission/Liquor Control officers).
• If compliance checks are not currently being conducted, do Alcohol Purchase Surveys in order to prove the need for regular compliance checks.  Also contact the local police chief to schedule an appointment to discuss why compliance checks aren’t done. 
• Volunteer to serve as a decoy during the compliance check.  You must be younger than 21, so freshman and sophomore students will be the best volunteers. Also, many agencies pay decoys for their time, which can be a great incentive for helping out.
• Present results to administration or community groups to highlight positives and negatives of findings.
• Recognize and thank retailers who are enforcing the laws with a certificate or plaque of appreciation.
• Be aware of retail practices in your community and report any stores not complying with the laws. 

 Community Members & Parents

• Take the initiative to identify 1-2 students and make some calls to determine who conducts compliance checks (police, sheriff, Alcohol Beverage Commission/Liquor Control officers).
• Volunteer to help.
• Be aware of retail practices in your community and report any stores not complying with the laws.