PSH-24-0145 - In the Matter of Personnel Security Hearing

On November 20, 2024, an Administrative Judge determined that an Individual's access authorization should be restored under 10 C.F.R. Part 710. In late 2023, the Individual reported that he had been hospitalized for treatment related to alcohol use. The Individual was subsequently evaluated by a DOE-contracted psychologist (DOE Psychologist) who diagnosed the Individual with Alcohol Use Disorder, Moderate, in Early Remission, pursuant to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition, Text Revision (DSM-5-TR). At the hearing, the Individual testified that he had been abstinent from alcohol for approximately eleven months, had attended counseling and classes through the Employee Concerns Program at his worksite, and had been regularly attending SMART Recovery meetings. He additionally provided documentary evidence to support his testimony. The DOE Psychologist opined that the Individual had established rehabilitation and reformation from the Alcohol Use Disorder with a good prognosis. After considering all the evidence presented, the Administrative Judge concluded that the Individual had resolved the Guideline G concerns and his access authorization should be restored. (OHA Case No. PSH-24-0145, Quintana)