U.S. Department of Agriculture has barred two produce companies in Michigan and Illinois from the industry for failure to pay reparation awards issued under the Perishable Agricultural Commodities Act (PACA).

The following businesses and individuals are currently restricted from operating in the produce industry:

Chicago, Il-based Waynes World Inc. was restricted for failure to pay a $29,712 award in favor of an Illinois seller. Wayne Passoff was listed as the officer, director, and major stockholder of the business.

Hart, Mi-based Hart Produce Co. Inc. for failed to pay a $13,580 award in favor of an Indiana seller, and has been consequently barred. Arthur H. Brandel and Jerry A. Brandel were listed as the officers, directors, and/or major stockholders of the business.

USDA is required to suspend the license or impose sanctions on a business that fails to pay PACA reparations awards and impose restrictions against those principals determined to be responsibly connected to the penalized business.

AMS