Nadine Wilkins (202)720-8998Nadine.wilkins@ams.usda.govBilly Cox (202)720-8998Billy.cox@ams.usda.gov
WASHINGTON, May 7, 2010 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture has filed an administrative action against Meza Sierra Enterprises Inc., operating in McAllen, Texas. The action alleges that the company committed willful, repeated, and flagrant violations of the Perishable Agricultural Commodities Act (PACA).
In the action, it is alleged that the company failed to make full payment promptly to two sellers of the agreed purchase prices or balances thereof, in the total amount of $282,621.20 for 17 lots of perishable agricultural commodities, which the company purchased, received, and accepted in interstate and foreign commerce during the period of November 2008 through January 2009.
The company will have an opportunity to request a hearing. Should USDA find that the company committed repeated and flagrant violations, it could be barred from the produce industry for two years. Furthermore, its principals could not be employed by or affiliated with any PACA licensee for one year and then only with the posting of a USDA-approved surety bond.
The PACA establishes a code of good business conduct for the produce industry. Under it, all interstate traders in fresh and frozen fruits and vegetables must be licensed by USDA. USDA is authorized to suspend or revoke a trader’s license for violating the act.
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