The Department of Licensing and Consumer Affairs on Friday issued a release warning business owners not to sell liquor between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. on Good Friday, which falls on April 19 this year.
The department quoted Virgin Islands Code to backup its warning: “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,” reads VI Code Title 1, Chapter 11, Subsection 171(b).
D.L.C.A. said 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, the department said.
D.L.C.A. Commissioner Nominee, Richard Evangelista, urged the public to report any business found violating the law.
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