USDA Lifts PACA Reparation Sanctions on JD Rodriguez Produce Inc.
WASHINGTON, D.C. - The USDA has lifted PACA reparation sanctions on JD Rodriguez Produce Inc.
The Dallas, Texas-based company can now continue operating in the produce industry after applying for and receiving a PACA license. Johnny D. Rodriguez, Valerie J. Rodriguez, and Esmeralda G. Rodriguez were listed as the officers, directors, and/or major stockholders of the business and may now be employed by or affiliated with any PACA licensee, according to a press release.
JD Rodriguez Produce Inc. was formerly restricted from operating in the produce industry in April 2014 after failing to pay a $29,069 award in favor of a Texas seller. Once a reparation order is fully satisfied and it is confirmed that there are not any outstanding unpaid awards, USDA lifts the employment restrictions of the previously named, responsibly named individuals.
In the past three years, USDA resolved approximately 4,600 claims filed under PACA involving more than $87 million. Individuals, including sole proprietors, partners, members, managers, officers, directors, or major stockholders may not be employed by or affiliated with any PACA licensee without the approval of the USDA. The Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS), PACA Division, regulates fair trading practices of produce businesses operating subject to PACA.
