(a) A vessel owner or operator who fails to pay a fee or charge established under this subpart is liable to the United States Government for a civil penalty.

(b) In addition to the fees established in this subpart, the Coast Guard may recover collection and enforcement costs associated with delinquent payments of, or failure to pay, a fee. Coast Guard inspection and examination services may also be withheld pending payment of outstanding fees owed to the Coast Guard for inspection and examination services provided.

(c) Each District Commander or Officer in Charge Marine Inspection may request the Secretary of the Treasury, or the authorized representative thereof, to withhold or revoke the clearance required by 46 U.S.C. app. 91 of a vessel for which a fee or charge established under this part has not been paid or until a bond is posted for the payment.