In a recent announcement, the USDA declared that D. DeFranco & Sons, operating under Parimar Inc., has fulfilled a $31,200 reparation order for unpaid produce transactions. This decision allows the Los Angeles-based company to continue its operations in the produce industry.
Gerald S. DeFranco, Paul F. DeFranco, and Richard J. DeFranco, the officers and major stakeholders of the business, are now free to work for or affiliate with any PACA licensee without restrictions. The Perishable Agricultural Commodities Act (PACA) serves as a platform for resolving disputes related to produce transactions and often issues reparation orders to enforce payment obligations in the buying and selling of fresh and frozen fruits and vegetables. Failure to comply with these orders can result in sanctions for unlicensed businesses or restrictions on individuals connected to the business at the time the order is issued. These individuals may not be able to work for or be involved with any PACA licensee without USDA approval after a reparation order is fully satisfied and all outstanding payments are made.
For more information about PACA dispute resolution and reparation orders, contact Penny Robinson-Landrigan, Chief of the Dispute Resolution Branch, at (202) 720-2890 or PACAdispute@usda.gov. All media inquiries should be directed to Public Affairs at PA@usda.gov or (202) 720-8998. Release No.: 062-24
