On 5 March 2026, DCSA announced a new interactive tool that allows individuals to track the status of past or current investigations, communicate directly with agency personnel, and securely self-report information.  This platform is meant to align with the Trusted Workforce 2.0 initiative to modernize and improve the efficiency of federal personnel vetting by providing […]

A security clearance suspension is different than a denial or revocation.  It is an interim decision made when the government or agency becomes aware of derogatory information that raises questions as to the clearance holder’s current ability to protect national security information.  Examples of incidents that could trigger a clearance suspension include a positive drug […]

Receiving mental health treatment alone is not a reason to deny or revoke a clearance, and often it is a failure to seek and adhere to effective treatment plans that results in eligibility issues. When derogatory information about your mental health has been discovered by investigators that could impact your clearance, either because it was […]

On 27 January 2025, President Trump signed Executive Order 14183, Prioritizing Military Excellence and Readiness.  On 26 February 2025, the Under Secretary of Defense issued additional guidance on implementation of the policy.  The stated rationale is that the “medical, surgical, and mental health constraints … [associated with] gender dysphoria are incompatible with the high mental […]

It is not uncommon for a job offer to be contingent upon obtaining an interim clearance.  Employers know that the adjudicative process for a clearance can be slow-moving, and an interim clearance will allow you to perform your job functions while you wait on a final decision.  So long as no derogatory information is disclosed/discovered […]

Yes, it can.  The National Security Adjudicative Guidelines outline the criteria by which individuals are considered for eligibility for access to classified information.  The Guidelines are the same no matter the level of clearance being considered; only the depth of investigation/level of scrutiny applied is different.  It is possible to for a clearance holder seeking […]

As of 8 December 2024, a significant change was implemented by the Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency (DCSA) to the due process procedures for federal employees (including service members).  Previously, federal employees were not given the opportunity to request a personal appearance until after they responded to a Statement of Reasons (SOR) and their clearance […]