PSH-22-0116 - In the Matter of Personnel Security Hearing

On September 29, 2022, an Administrative Judge determined that an Individual should not be granted access authorization under 10 C.F.R. Part 710. In January 2021, the Individual completed a Questionnaire for National Security Positions (QNSP) in which he denied having used illegal drugs during the prior seven years. In November 2021, the Individual completed a second QNSP and again denied having used illegal drugs during the prior seven years. However, during an interview with an investigator concerning his eligibility for access authorization, the Individual admitted to illegal drug use which he did not disclose on the QNSPs because he feared that he would not be granted access authorization. In light of the seriousness of the Individual's failure to disclose his illegal drug use on the QNSPs, and his failure to promptly disclose these omissions, the Administrative Judge concluded that the Individual had not resolved the security concerns under Guideline E. Therefore, the Administrative Judge determined that the Individual should not be granted access authorization. (OHA Case No. PSH-22-0116, Harmonick)