Williston ND’s Alcohol Compliance Checks: A Toast to Improvement!

Good news, Williston—our local businesses are getting better at saying “no” to underage drinkers! On February 18, 2025, the Williston Police Department put 39 establishments to the test with alcohol compliance checks, and the results are in: only three businesses slipped up, marking an improvement from the last round.

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Undercover, But Not Quite Hollywood

For those unfamiliar, these compliance checks involve 19- and 20-year-olds working with law enforcement to see if they can successfully purchase alcohol. Think of it as a real-life undercover operation, minus the dramatic Hollywood soundtrack. The goal? To ensure businesses are following the law and not accidentally (or intentionally) serving minors.

Progress, Not Perfection: A Win for Responsibility

While three establishments didn’t quite make the honor roll this time, the overall results show progress. That’s a win for responsible business owners, parents, and, well… the law as well. After all, keeping alcohol out of the hands of minors helps keep the community safer—fewer bad decisions, fewer regrettable social media posts, and fewer "I swear I thought they were 21!" excuses.

Keeping Compliance in Check: Card Twice, Serve Never

The Williston Police Department promises to keep these checks going, reinforcing the message that when it comes to underage sales, it’s best to card twice and serve never. So, let’s raise a glass (of something non-alcoholic, of course) to the businesses that passed and encourage everyone to keep up the good work. Cheers to compliance! 🍻 (With a valid ID, of course.)