PSH-24-0073 - In the Matter of Personnel Security Hearing

On June 14, 2024, an Administrative Judge determined that the Individual's access authorization should be granted under 10 C.F.R. Part 710. The Individual is employed by a DOE Contractor in a position that requires him to hold a security clearance. The Local Security Office received potentially derogatory information regarding the Individual's alcohol consumption. The Individual, his witness, and the DOE Psychologist testified at the hearing. The Individual presented evidence that he had abstained from alcohol for sixteen months, submitted negative alcohol testing to support his abstinence, and submitted evidence from his treating Substance Abuse Disorder (SUD) psychologist stating that his Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) is in sustained remission. The Individual also testified that he was participating in a weekly outpatient SUD group treatment, and presented evidence from his SUD psychologist that verified his participation in treatment. The Individual further presented medical evidence from his doctor advising him to stop consuming alcohol to address his liver problems. The Individual testified that after he ceased alcohol use, his liver health improved, and his testimony was supported by two ultrasound test results that he submitted. The DOE Psychiatrist opined that the Individual was rehabilitated and reformed from his AUD. The Administrative Judge concluded that the Individual had mitigated the concerns until Guideline G, and therefore his clearance should be granted. (OHA Case No. PSH-24-0073, Balzon)