During a compliance check earlier this month, the Oregon Liquor Control Commission found that eight of 10 businesses in Jefferson County checked identification and refused to sell alcohol to minors, according to a news release from the commission.

The check was part of a countywide effort to combat underage drinking, the release reported.

The results of the Sept. 6 sweep were a significant improvement over a compliance check conducted just weeks before, according to the release. During an Aug. 23 test, eight of 10 businesses in Jefferson County sold alcohol to minors.

Clerks at The Store in Culver and the Busy Bee Market in Madras failed to ask for identification in the most recent compliance check, when volunteers ages 18 to 20 attempted to buy alcohol. Volunteers are supervised by OLCC inspectors and law enforcement officers, carry their own legal identification and do not disguise their ages, according to the release.

Store clerks who sell alcohol to minors must appear and court and face a fine of at least $350. Their employers may face fines or have their liquor license suspended.

The Oregon Liquor Control Commission offers training to employers and others on laws regarding the sale of alcohol, checking identification and catching fake identification, according to the release.