(a) If any public utility shall violate any provision of this chapter, or shall do any act herein prohibited, or shall fail or refuse to perform any duty enjoined upon it, or shall fail, neglect, or refuse to obey any lawful subpoena, requirement or order made by the Commission, or any judgment or decree made by any court upon its application, for every such violation, failure, or refusal, such public utility shall forfeit and pay to the Government of the Virgin Islands the sum of $100 for each such offense. In construing and enforcing the provisions of this section, the act, omission, or failure of any officer, agent, or other person acting for or employed by any public utility acting within the scope of his employment and instructions shall in every case be deemed to be the act, omission, or failure of such public utility.
(b) The Attorney General of the Virgin Islands, at the request of the Public Services Commission, or its designated agent therefor, shall forthwith bring appropriate action to compel adherence to, or enjoin violations of, any lawful orders of the Commission issued pursuant to this chapter, and to recover in the name of the Government of the Virgin Islands the penalties herein provided, and the Court shall give priority to any such actions.
(c) The provisions of this section shall not apply to departments or agencies of the Government of the Virgin Islands furnishing public utility services, however, this provision shall not exempt the Government of the Virgin Islands from claims made pursuant to Title 3, chapter 118 of the Code.