Collection of debts

§ 2401. Collection of debts (a) The Postmaster General shall— (1) collect debts due the Department; and (2) collect and remit fines, penalties, and forfeitures arising out of matters affecting the Department. He may refer any debt, which is uncollectible through administrative action, to the General Accounting Office for collection. This subsection does not affect the authority of the Attorney General in cases in which judicial proceedings are instituted. (b) In all cases of disability or alleged liability for any sum of money by way of damages or otherwise, under any provision of law in relation to the officers, employees, operations, or business of the Postal Service, the Postmaster General shall determine whether the interests of the Department probably require the exercise of his powers over the same. Upon the determination the Comptroller General, with the written consent of the Postmaster General and on such terms as the Postmaster General deems just and expedient, may— (1) remove the disability; or (2) compromise, release, or discharge the claim for such sum of money and damages. 74 Stat. 603 (c) Subsection (b) applies to cases involving balances due the United States through accountability for public moneys under any provisions of law in relation to the officers, employees, operations, or business of the Postal Service, except cases cognizable under section 2403 of this title.