Is there a way to make the rate value error message stop submission?

Summary:

Looking to see if there is a way to get the below warning message so not allow the person to continue with process when it occurs.

"The rate value from the grade ladder is missing, so the amount can't be updated from the grade ladder."

Content (please ensure you mask any confidential information):

We are looking at making some inactive steps at a rate of 0.00 because they are no longer in use, but we are unable to inactive because there are inactive assignments attached to those steps. When we make them a rate of 0.00, we get the below warning message if they are selected accidentally. However, it still allows you to submit.