CHRISTIANSTED — The Department of Licensing and Consumer Affairs (DLCA) Commissioner Richard Evangelista reminds business owners and the public of the restrictions mandated by law on the serving of alcohol on Good Friday. According to VIC Title 1, Chapter 11, Subsection 171(b):
“Distilled liquor and drinks prepared therewith shall not be served in public places of refreshment between the hours of 9:00 o’clock in the morning and 4:00 o’clock in the afternoon on Good Friday. Whoever violates this subsection shall be fined not more than $200 or imprisoned not more than a year or both”
Distilled liquor includes spirits and can be defined as grain alcohol, with a high alcohol content. Examples of distilled spirits include brandy, whiskey, rum, gin, and vodka. This does not include beverages such as beer, wine, and cider, as they are fermented but not distilled. These all have relatively low alcohol content, typically less than 15 percent. Local cordials such as pina coladas, coquito, and guavaberry sales are not restricted on this day.
“DLCA realizes that most establishments that prepare and serve alcohol to customers are closed due to the Governor’s COVID-19 State of Public Health Emergency,” Commissioner Evangelista said. “This is a reminder that the serving of alcohol during the specific hours stated by law, shall still be enforced.”
Commissioner Evangelista urges the public to report any business observed in violation of this law to the Department of Licensing and Consumer Affairs
For consumer related issues you may email us at consumerawareness@dlca.vi.gov or call our hotlines on St. Croix 340.727.SCAM(7226) or St.Thomas/St. John at 340-771-SCAM(7226). You may file a consumer complaint at www.dlca.vi.gov
For more information on COVID-19, the new strain of coronavirus, please visit the USVI Department of Health’s website, doh.vi.gov/coronavirus or text COVID19USVI to 888777. For non-medical information call (340) 715-6843 between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. seven days a week. #COVID19USVI