PSH-23-0109 - In the Matter of Personnel Security Hearing

Access Authorization Not Granted; Guideline E (Personal Conduct), Guideline G (Alcohol Consumption) 

On December 4, 2023, an Administrative Judge determined that the Individual's access authorization should not 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. In September 2022, the Individual completed a Questionnaire for National Security Positions in which he misstated why he had previously been denied a security clearance and failed to report previous alcohol -related diagnosis and treatment. He was subsequently diagnosed with an Alcohol Use Disorder by a DOE Psychologist. At the hearing, the Individual testified that his omissions from his QNSP were due to the fact that he did not recall the events in question. He also disputed the DOE Psychologist's diagnosis of Alcohol Use Disorder. He further admitted that he had not taken any steps to attempt to mitigate these concerns. The Administrative Judge therefore concluded that the Individual did not bring forth sufficient evidence to mitigate the Guideline E and Guideline G concerns. Accordingly, he concluded that the Individual should not be granted access authorization. (OHA Case No. PSH-23-0109, Cronin)