PSH-24-0179 - In the Matter of Personnel Security Hearing

On January 3, 2025, an Administrative Judge determined that an Individual's access authorization should be granted under 10 C.F.R. Part 710. In 2023, the Individual reported on his Questionnaire for National Security Positions that his alcohol use had a negative impact on his personal life. The Individual was subsequently evaluated by a DOE-contracted psychologist (DOE Psychologist) who diagnosed the Individual with Unspecified Alcohol Related Disorder, pursuant to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition, Text Revision (DSM-5-TR). At the hearing, the Individual testified that he had been abstinent from alcohol for approximately six months, had begun seeing a therapist, and had been regularly attending SMART Recovery meetings. He additionally provided documentary evidence to support his testimony. The DOE Psychologist opined that the Individual had established rehabilitation from the Alcohol Use Disorder with a good prognosis. After considering all the evidence presented, the Administrative Judge concluded that the Individual had resolved the Guideline G concerns and his access authorization should be granted. (OHA Case No . PSH-24-0179, Fine)