PSH-23-0090 - In the Matter of Personnel Security Hearing

On August 30, 2023, an Administrative Judge in the Department of Energy's Office of Hearings and Appeals issued a decision restoring an Individual's access authorization. The Individual had voluntarily entered alcohol treatment and treatment for anxiety and depression. At the hearing, the Individual presented evidence that she had completed her treatment program, remained abstinent for over seven months, and was continuing to address her alcohol issues in ongoing therapy. She also presented evidence that she had learned skills and coping mechanisms to appropriately manage her anxiety and depression and had learned emotional regulation skills. She presented evidence that she continued to pursue treatment and therapy for these mental health conditions. Based on the evidence presented and the Individual's pattern of proactive, thorough candor, the Administrative Judge determined that the Individual had mitigated the Guideline G and Guideline I security concerns and that the Individual's access authorization should be restored. (OHA Case No. PSH-23-0090, Martin)