PSH-24-0178 - In the Matter of Personnel Security Hearing

On January 24, 2025, an Administrative Judge issued a decision recommending that an Individual's access authorization be granted. The Individual was a former habitual methamphetamine user and relapsed two days before being evaluated by a DOE Psychologist. The Psychologist diagnosed him with an alcohol use disorder, substance use disorder, and trauma- or stressor related disorder. At the hearing, the Individual presented evidence that he had completed multiple substance abuse programs, had abstained from drugs and alcohol for over seven months, was active in AA and had a sponsor, and was in individual and group counseling. The DOE Psychologist opined that the Individual was rehabilitated and had a good prognosis. Accordingly, the Administrative Judge found that the security concerns under all of the guidelines were mitigated. The Administrative Judge also found that the Individual was not an addict or habitual drug user as defined by the Bond Amendment. Therefore, the Administrative Judge found that the Bond Amendment did not bar the Individual's employment, and that the Individual's access authorization should be granted. (OHA Case No. PSH-24-0178, Martin)