April 23, 2009 – The Department of Licensing and Consumer Affairs reminds merchants that the first installment of this year's Hurricane Price List must be submitted to DLCA by June 1. Every year, at the onset of hurricane season, DLCA requests businesses to furnish an official price list of their goods and merchandise in stock, and for the services they offer to the public. "This information is required by law and DLCA will go to every extent to ensure full compliance that the lists are received. This is an obligation for the merchant, not an option. The price lists are critical in determining and combating allegations of price gouging, which often surfaces after a hurricane when goods and services are scarce and consumer demand is high," said Acting Commissioner Wayne Biggs.
After presentation of the first price list, businesses must continue to submit an updated price list on the first of each month until Nov. 30. If a business has not changed its prices or acquired new products/services, they can submit a letter certifying that the previous price list turned in is still valid. Businesses can opt to submit price list information electronically on a compact disc to DLCA, according to a press release from the Department of Licensing and Consumer Affairs.
Submissions of the price lists are authorized under Title 3, Section 272(c) of the Virgin Islands Code. It is primarily targeted at businesses whose goods and services are necessary for hurricane preparation and recovery. Businesses that must submit price lists include all supermarkets, grocery stores, convenience stores, pharmacies, hardware stores, water and delivery businesses, contractors, carpenters, plumbers, electricians and masons. Failure to submit a price list or certification letter by the first of each month will result in a $5,000 fine.
Price list sample forms for businesses are available for pick-up at DLCA offices. For further information, contact Consumer Affairs Director Howard Dyer on St. Croix at 773-2226 ext.227, Special Assistant to CPS/WM Director Beatrice Gumbs on St. Thomas at 774-3130 ext. 4270, or Karen Stapleton on St. John at 693-8036.
