Government

DLCA Cites 60 of 90 Businesses for Expired Products; DOJ Pursues 16 Gas Retailers Over Subpoenas

The Department of Licensing and Consumer Affairs told lawmakers that 60 of 90 businesses inspected territorywide were cited for expired products, while the Department of Justice continues pursuing 16 gasoline retailers in the St. Thomas-St. John District as DLCA prepares to expand enforcement and complete studies of short-term rentals, fuel, food and housing. Those initiatives form part of the department’s fiscal year 2027 priorities, which also include improving the collection of unpaid citations. DLCA is requesting $6,566,712 from the General Fund for FY2027 and another $700,000 from the Consumer Protection Fund. A $323,888 increase to the department’s revised fiscal year 2026 General Fund appropriation will finance the short-term rental market study. Commissioner H. Nathalie Hodge said the review is expected to identify “licensing and compliance gaps…” and that its findings will guide enforcement and “any necessary legislative or regulatory recommendations.” DOJ Pursuing Gas Re...