Unauthorized Commitment - An agreement that is not binding solely because the Government representative who made it lacked the authority to enter into that agreement on behalf of the Government.
Ratification - The act of approving an unauthorized commitment by an official who has the authority to do so.
Punishments resulting from an Unauthorized Commitment:
1. Willful and Knowing violations are punishable by two years in jail and /or fine of $5,000.
2. Unless "Ratified" there is a personal financial liability for the perpetrator.
3. Ratification requires the MSC unit commander endorsement.