PSH-24-0129 - In the Matter of Personnel Security Hearing

On October 9, 2024, an Administrative Judge determined that an individual's access authorization under 10 C.F.R. Part 710 should be restored. The Individual is employed by a DOE contractor in a position that requires him to hold a security clearance. In November 2023, the Individual tested positive for alcohol during a random breath alcohol test at his worksite. In February 2024, the Individual underwent a psychological evaluation with a DOE consultant-psychologist (DOE Psychologist) who determined that the Individual had a history of binge consuming alcohol to the point of impaired judgment. At the hearing, the Individual testified that he had been abstinent from alcohol since late 2023, had completed an Intensive Outpatient Treatment Program (IOP), and had been attending the IOP's aftercare program for approximately five months with the intention of continued attendance. Additionally, the DOE Psychologist testified that the Individual had established adequate evidence of rehabilitation and reformation from the binge consumption of alcohol. The Administrative Judge determined that the Individual had mitigated the Guideline G security concerns, and she concluded that the Individual's access authorization should be restored. (OHA Case No. PSH-24-0129, Quintana)