The state on Thursday announced it will temporarily increase penalties for those who unintentionally sell marijuana to minors.

The announcement by the Oregon Liquor Control Commission, which oversees the state's recreational marijuana industry, comes on the heels of a statewide sting in December in which nearly 20 percent of state-licensed marijuana retailers targeted in the stings sold pot to shoppers under 21.

Steve Marks, the commission's executive director, called the results of the operation "unacceptable."

In response, the commission announced it will triple penalties for those who sell marijuana to minors unintentionally: Those first-time offenders will now face a 30-day license suspension or a fine of $4,950. The previous penalty was a 10-day license suspension or a $1,650 fine.

"There's no margin for error on making sure that marijuana doesn't get in the hands of minors - period," said commission Chair Paul Rosenbaum in a statement. "The integrity of Oregon's regulated system depends on industry compliance across the board."

The temporary rule will take effect Friday and remain in effect for six months. After that, taking into account retailer compliance and staff recommendations, the commission will consider making the new penalties permanent.

-- Anna Marum

amarum@oregonian.com

503-294-5911

@annamarum