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Dollar stores have experienced tremendous growth over the years, with chains like Dollar Tree and Dollar General collectively establishing themselves as billion-dollar empires. Yet, alongside their expansion lies a darker narrative. Numerous reports of health concerns, product safety issues, and exploitative practices have surfaced, painting a problematic picture of these discount retailers. Store closures due to health hazards, like a rat infestation at a Dollar Tree in Queens, and the increase of dollar items from $1 to upwards of $5 and $7 provoke a closer examination.