What administrative penalty occurs for failure to pay mandated fees?

When a commercial inspector fails to pay mandated fees, the appropriate administrative penalty is suspension. Suspension serves as a temporary measure that prevents the inspector from operating until the outstanding fees are resolved. This penalty aims to ensure compliance with the financial obligations necessary to maintain licensure and protect the integrity of the inspection profession.

In this context, opting for suspension instead of immediate revocation allows a pathway for the inspector to rectify the situation by making the required payments. It serves both as a deterrent to noncompliance and as a means of allowing inspectors the opportunity to remain in good standing once the issue is addressed.

This contrasts with the other options: immediate revocation is a more severe consequence typically reserved for serious violations, reduced fees do not function as a penalty, and probationary status does not apply when it comes to the specific action of failing to pay fees; instead, it is more relevant to behavioral or performance issues. Thus, suspension effectively aligns with the purpose of ensuring accountability for financial responsibilities within the licensing framework.