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Timestamp: 2015-05-07 01:36:56
Document Index: 695330384

Matched Legal Cases: ['art 710', 'ART 710', '§710', '§710', '§710', '§710', '§710', '§710', '§710', '§710', '§710', '§710', '§710', '§710', '§710', '§710', '§710', '§710', '§710', '§710', '§710', '§710', '§710', '§710', '§710', '§710', '§710', 'art 710', 'art 710', 'art 710', '§710', '§710', '§710', '§710', '§710', '§710', '§710', '§710', '§710', '§709', '§710', '§710', '§710', '§710', '§710', '§710', '§710', '§710', '§710', '§710', '§710', '§710', '§710', '§710', '§710', '§710', '§710', '§710', '§710', '§710', '§710', '§710', '§710', '§710', '§710', '§710', '§710', '§710', '§710', '§710', '§710', '§710', '§710', '§710', '§710', '§710', '§710', '§710', '§710', '§710', '§710', '§710', '§710']

Title 10 → Chapter III → Part 710
PART 710—CRITERIA AND PROCEDURES FOR DETERMINING ELIGIBILITY FOR ACCESS TO CLASSIFIED MATTER OR SPECIAL NUCLEAR MATERIAL ContentsSubpart A—General Criteria and Procedures for Determining Eligibility for Access to Classified Matter or Special Nuclear Material
§710.1 Purpose.
§710.2 Scope.
§710.3 Reference.
§710.4 Policy.
§710.7 Application of the criteria.
§710.8 Criteria.
§710.9 Action on derogatory information.
§710.10 Suspension of access authorization.
§710.20 Purpose of administrative review.
§710.21 Notice to the individual.
§710.22 Initial decision process.
§710.23 Extensions of time by the Manager.
§710.24 Appointment of DOE Counsel.
§710.25 Appointment of Administrative Judge; prehearing conference; commencement of hearings.
§710.26 Conduct of hearings.
§710.27 Administrative Judge's decision.
§710.28 Action on the Administrative Judge's decision.
§710.29 Final appeal process.
§710.30 New evidence.
§710.31 Action by the Secretary.
§710.32 Reconsideration of access eligibility.
§710.33 Terminations.
§710.34 Attorney representation.
§710.35 Time frames.
§710.36 Acting officials.
Appendix A to Subpart A of Part 710—Selected Provisions of the Atomic Energy Act of 1954, as Amended, Sec. 141 (42 U.S.C. 2161), Sec. 145 (42 U.S.C. 2165), Sec. 161 (42 U.S.C. 2201)
Appendix B to Subpart A of Part 710—Adjudicative Guidelines Approved by the President in Accordance With the Provisions of Executive Order 12968
Authority: 42 U.S.C. 2165, 2201, 5815, 7101, et seq., 7383h-l; 50 U.S.C. 2401 et seq.; E.O. 10450, 3 CFR 1949-1953 comp., p. 936, as amended; E.O. 10865, 3 CFR 1959-1963 comp., p. 398, as amended, 3 CFR Chap. IV; E.O. 13526, 3 CFR 2010 Comp., pp. 298-327 (or successor orders); E.O. 12968, 3 CFR 1995 Comp., p. 391. Editorial Note: Nomenclature changes to part 710 appear at 78 FR 52391, Aug. 23, 2013. Back to Top
Subpart A—General Criteria and Procedures for Determining Eligibility for Access to Classified Matter or Special Nuclear Material
Source: 59 FR 35185, July 8, 1994, unless otherwise noted. Back to Top
§710.1 Purpose.(a) This subpart establishes the criteria, procedures, and methods for resolving questions concerning the eligibility of individuals who are employed by, or applicants for employment with, Department of Energy (DOE) contractors, agents, and access permittees, individuals who are DOE employees or applicants for DOE employment, and other persons designated by the Secretary of Energy, for access to Restricted Data or special nuclear material, pursuant to the Atomic Energy Act of 1954, as amended, or for access to national security information. (b) This subpart is published to implement: Executive Order 12968, 60 FR 40245 (August 7, 1995); Executive Order 12958, 60 FR 19825 (April 20, 1995); Executive Order 10865, 25 FR 1583 (February 24, 1960), as amended; and Executive Order 10450, 18 FR 2489 (April 27, 1954), as amended. This subpart also provides for public information: selected provisions of the Atomic Energy Act of 1954, as amended, set forth in appendix A to this subpart; and the 1997 Adjudicative Guidelines approved by the President and set forth in appendix B to this subpart.
[59 FR 35185, July 8, 1994, as amended at 66 FR 47062, Sept. 11, 2001]
§710.2 Scope.The criteria and procedures outlined in this subpart shall be used in those cases in which there are questions of eligibility for DOE access authorization involving: (a) Employees (including consultants) of, and applicants for employment with, contractors and agents of the DOE; (b) Access permittees of the DOE and their employees (including consultants) and applicants for employment; (c) Employees (including consultants) of, and applicants for employment with, the DOE; and (d) Other persons designated by the Secretary of Energy. Back to Top
§710.3 Reference.The pertinent sections of the Atomic Energy Act of 1954, as amended, relative to this regulation are set forth in Appendix A to this subpart. Back to Top
§710.4 Policy.(a) It is the policy of DOE to provide for the security of its programs in a manner consistent with traditional American concepts of justice and fairness. To this end, the Secretary has established criteria for determining eligibility for access authorization and procedures that will afford those individuals described in §710.2 the opportunity for administrative review of questions concerning their eligibility for access authorization. (b) It is also the policy of DOE that none of the procedures established by DOE for determining eligibility for access authorization shall be used for an improper purpose, including any attempt to coerce, restrain, threaten, intimidate, or retaliate against individuals for exercising their rights under any statute, regulation or DOE directive. Any DOE officer or employee violating, or causing the violation of this policy, shall be subject to appropriate disciplinary action. (c) If the individual is currently awaiting a hearing or trial, or has been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment of six (6) months or longer, or is awaiting or serving a form of preprosecution probation, suspended or deferred sentencing, court ordered probation, or parole in conjunction with an arrest or criminal charges initiated against the individual for a crime that is punishable by imprisonment of six (6) months or longer, DOE may suspend processing an application for access authorization until such time as the hearing, trial, criminal prosecution, suspended sentencing, deferred sentencing, probation, or parole has been completed.(d) DOE may suspend processing an application for access authorization if sufficient information about the individual's background cannot be obtained to meet the investigative scope and extent requirements for the access authorization requested. (e) DOE may suspend processing an application for access authorization until such time as a question regarding an individual's national allegiance is resolved. For example, if an individual is exercising rights of citizenship conferred by a country other than the United States, DOE will be concerned with whether granting access authorization to that individual constitutes an unacceptable national security risk. (f) DOE may suspend processing an application for access authorization whenever an individual fails to fulfill the responsibilities described in §710.6. (g) If an individual believes that the provisions of paragraph (c), (d), or (e) of this section have been inappropriately applied, a written appeal may be filed with the Director, Office of Personnel Security, DOE Headquarters, within 30 calendar days of the date the individual was notified of the action. The Director shall act on the written appeal as described in section 710.6(c).
[59 FR 35185, July 8, 1994, as amended at 66 FR 47062, Sept. 11, 2001; 71 FR 68730, Nov. 28, 2006]
§710.5 Definitions.(a) As used in this subpart: Access authorization means an administrative determination that an individual is eligible for access to classified matter or is eligible for access to, or control over, special nuclear material. Classified Matter means the material of thought or expression that is classified pursuant to statute or Executive Order.DOE Counsel means a DOE attorney assigned to represent DOE in proceedings under this subpart. DOE Counsel shall be a U.S. citizen and shall have been subject to a favorably adjudicated background investigation. Administrative Judge means a DOE attorney or senior management official appointed by the Director, Office of Hearings and Appeals, pursuant to §710.25. A Administrative Judge shall be a U.S. citizen and shall have been subject to a favorably adjudicated background investigation. Local Director of Security means the individual with primary responsibility for safeguards and security at the Chicago, Idaho, Oak Ridge, Richland, and Savannah River Operations Offices and the Pittsburgh and Schenectady Naval Reactors Offices; the Manager, National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) Service Center; for Washington, DC area cases, the Director, Office of Security Operations; and any person designated in writing to serve in one of the aforementioned positions in an acting capacity.Manager means the Manager of a DOE Operations Office (Albuquerque, Chicago, Idaho, Nevada, Oak Ridge, Oakland, Richland, or Savannah River), the Manager of the Pittsburgh Naval Reactors Office, the Manager of the Schenectady Naval Reactors Office, and, for Washington, DC area cases, the Director, Office of Personnel Security.National Security Information means any information that has been determined, pursuant to Executive Order 12958 or any predecessor Order, to require protection against unauthorized disclosure and that is so designated.Secretary means the Secretary of Energy, as provided by section 201 of the Department of Energy Organization Act.Special nuclear material means plutonium, uranium enriched in the isotope 233, or in the isotope 235, and any other material which, pursuant to the provisions of Section 51 of the Atomic Energy Act of 1954, as amended, has been determined to be special nuclear material, but does not include source material; or any material artificially enriched by any of the foregoing, not including source material.(b) Throughout this subpart the use of the male gender shall include the female gender and vice versa.
[59 FR 35185, July 8, 1994, as amended at 66 FR 47063, Sept. 11, 2001; 71 FR 68730, Nov. 28, 2006]
§710.6 Cooperation by the individual.(a)(1) It is the responsibility of the individual to cooperate by providing full, frank, and truthful answers to DOE's relevant and material questions, and when requested, to furnish or authorize others to furnish information that the DOE deems pertinent to the individual's eligibility for DOE access authorization. This obligation to cooperate applies when completing security forms, during the course of a personnel security background investigation or reinvestigation, and at any stage of DOE's processing of the individual's access authorization, including but not limited to, personnel security interviews, DOE-sponsored mental evaluations, and other authorized DOE investigative activities under this subpart. The individual may elect not to cooperate; however, such refusal may prevent DOE from reaching an affirmative finding required for granting or continuing access authorization. In this event, any access authorization then in effect may be terminated, or, for applicants, further processing may be suspended.(2) It is the responsibility of an individual subject to §709.3(d) to consent to and take an event-specific polygraph examination. A refusal to consent to or take such an examination may prevent DOE from reaching an affirmative finding required for continuing access authorization. In this event, DOE may suspend or terminate any access authorization.(b) If the individual believes that the provisions of paragraph (a) of this section have been inappropriately applied in his case, he may file a written appeal of the action with the Director, Office of Personnel Security, DOE Headquarters, within 30 calendar days of the date he was notified of the action.(c) Upon receipt of the written appeal, the Director, Office of Personnel Security, shall conduct an inquiry as to the circumstances involved in the action and shall, within 30 calendar days of receipt of the written appeal, notify the individual, in writing, as to whether the action to terminate or suspend processing of access authorization was appropriate. If the Director determines that the action was inappropriate, he shall direct that the individual continue to be processed for access authorization, or that access authorization for the individual be reinstated.
[59 FR 35185, July 8, 1994, as amended at 71 FR 57397, Sept. 29, 2006; 71 FR 68730, Nov. 28, 2006]
§710.7 Application of the criteria.(a) The decision as to access authorization is a comprehensive, common-sense judgment, made after consideration of all relevant information, favorable and unfavorable, as to whether the granting or continuation of access authorization will not endanger the common defense and security and is clearly consistent with the national interest. Any doubt as to an individual's access authorization eligibility shall be resolved in favor of the national security. Absent any derogatory information, a favorable determination usually will be made as to access authorization eligibility.(b) To assist in making these determinations, on the basis of all the information in a particular case, there are set forth in this subpart criteria consisting of a number of specific types of derogatory information. These criteria are not exhaustive but contain the principal types of derogatory information which create a question as to the individual's eligibility for access authorization. DOE is not limited to these criteria or precluded from exercising its judgment that information or facts in a case under its cognizance are derogatory although at variance with, or outside the scope of, the stated categories. These criteria are subject to continuing review and may be revised from time to time as experience and circumstances may make desirable.(c) In resolving a question concerning an individual's eligibility for access authorization, all DOE officials involved in the decision-making process shall consider: the nature, extent, and seriousness of the conduct; the circumstances surrounding the conduct, to include knowledgeable participation; the frequency and recency of the conduct; the age and maturity of the individual at the time of the conduct; the voluntariness of participation; the absence or presence of rehabilitation or reformation and other pertinent behavioral changes; the motivation for the conduct; the potential for pressure, coercion, exploitation, or duress; the likelihood of continuation or recurrence; and other relevant and material factors.
[59 FR 35185, July 8, 1994, as amended at 66 FR 47063, Sept. 11, 2001]
§710.8 Criteria.Derogatory information shall include, but is not limited to, information that the individual has:(a) Committed, prepared or attempted to commit, or aided, abetted or conspired with another to commit or attempt to commit any act of sabotage, espionage, treason, terrorism, or sedition.(b) Knowingly established or continued a sympathetic association with a saboteur, spy, terrorist, traitor, seditionist, anarchist, or revolutionist, espionage agent, or representative of a foreign nation whose interests are inimical to the interests of the United States, its territories or possessions, or with any person advocating the use of force or violence to overthrow the Government of the United States or any state or subdivision thereof by unconstitutional means.(c) Knowingly held membership in or had a knowing affiliation with, or has knowingly taken action which evidences a sympathetic association with the intent of furthering the aims of, or adhering to, and actively participating in, any foreign or domestic organization, association, movement, group, or combination of persons which advocates or practices the commission of acts of force or violence to prevent others from exercising their rights under the Constitution or Laws of the United States or any state or subdivision thereof by unlawful means.(d) Publicly or privately advocated, or participated in the activities of a group or organization, which has as its goal, revolution by force or violence to overthrow the Government of the United States or the alteration of the form of Government of the United States by unconstitutional means with the knowledge that it will further those goals.(e) Parent(s), brother(s), sister(s), spouse, or offspring residing in a nation whose interests may be inimical to the interests of the United States.(f) Deliberately misrepresented, falsified, or omitted significant information from a Personnel Security Questionnaire, a Questionnaire for Sensitive (or National Security) Positions, a personnel qualifications statement, a personnel security interview, written or oral statements made in response to official inquiry on a matter that is relevant to a determination regarding eligibility for DOE access authorization, or proceedings conducted pursuant to §710.20 through §710.31.(g) Failed to protect classified matter, or safeguard special nuclear material; or violated or disregarded security or safeguards regulations to a degree which would be inconsistent with the national security; or disclosed classified information to a person unauthorized to receive such information; or violated or disregarded regulations, procedures, or guidelines pertaining to classified or sensitive information technology systems.(h) An illness or mental condition of a nature which, in the opinion of a psychiatrist or licensed clinical psychologist, causes or may cause, a significant defect in judgment or reliability.(i) Refused to testify before a Congressional Committee, Federal or state court, or Federal administrative body, regarding charges relevant to eligibility for DOE, or another Federal agency's access authorization.(j) Been, or is, a user of alcohol habitually to excess, or has been diagnosed by a psychiatrist or a licensed clinical psychologist as alcohol dependent or as suffering from alcohol abuse.(k) Trafficked in, sold, transferred, possessed, used, or experimented with a drug or other substance listed in the Schedule of Controlled Substances established pursuant to section 202 of the Controlled Substances Act of 1970 (such as marijuana, cocaine, amphetamines, barbiturates, narcotics, etc.) except as prescribed or administered by a physician licensed to dispense drugs in the practice of medicine, or as otherwise authorized by Federal law.(l) Engaged in any unusual conduct or is subject to any circumstances which tend to show that the individual is not honest, reliable, or trustworthy; or which furnishes reason to believe that the individual may be subject to pressure, coercion, exploitation, or duress which may cause the individual to act contrary to the best interests of the national security. Such conduct or circumstances include, but are not limited to, criminal behavior, a pattern of financial irresponsibility, conflicting allegiances, or violation of any commitment or promise upon which DOE previously relied to favorably resolve an issue of access authorization eligibility.
§710.9 Action on derogatory information.(a) If the reports of investigation of an individual or other reliable information tend to establish the validity and significance of one or more items in the criteria, or of other reliable information or facts which are of security concern, although outside the scope of the stated categories, such information shall be regarded as derogatory and create a question as to the individual's access authorization eligibility.(b) If a question arises as to the individual's access authorization eligibility, the Local Director of Security shall authorize the conduct of an interview with the individual, or other appropriate actions, which may include a DOE-sponsored mental evaluation, and, on the basis of the results of such interview or actions, may authorize the granting of the individual's access authorization. If, in the opinion of the Local Director of Security, the question as to the individual's access authorization eligibility has not been favorably resolved, he shall submit the matter to the Manager with a recommendation that authority be obtained to process the individual's case under administrative review procedures.(c) If the Manager agrees that unresolved derogatory information is present and that appropriate attempts to resolve such derogatory information have been unsuccessful, he shall notify the Director, Office of Personnel Security, DOE Headquarters, of his proposal to conduct an administrative review proceeding, accompanied by an explanation of the security concerns and a duplicate Personnel Security File. If the Manager believes that the derogatory information has been favorably resolved, he shall direct that access authorization be granted for the individual. The Manager may also direct the Local Director of Security to obtain additional information in the matter prior to deciding whether to grant the individual access authorization or to submit a request for authority to conduct an administrative review proceeding. A decision in the matter shall be rendered by the Manager within 10 calendar days of its receipt.(d) Upon receipt of the Manager's notification, the Director, Office of Personnel Security, shall review the matter and confer with the Manager on:(1) The institution of administrative review proceedings set forth in §§710.20 through 710.32;(2) The granting of access authorization; or(3) Other actions as the Director deems appropriate.(e) The Director, Office of Personnel Security, shall act pursuant to one of these options within 30 calendar days of the receipt of the Manager's notification unless an extension is granted by the Principal Deputy Chief for Mission Support Operations, Office of Health, Safety and Security.
[66 FR 47063, Sept. 11, 2001, as amended at 71 FR 68730, Nov. 28, 2006]
§710.10 Suspension of access authorization.(a) If information is received that raises a question concerning an individual's continued access authorization eligibility, the Local Director of Security shall authorize action(s), to be taken on an expedited basis, to resolve the question pursuant to §710.9(b). If the question as to the individual's continued access authorization eligibility is not resolved in favor of the individual, the Local Director of Security shall submit the matter to the Manager with a recommendation that the individual's access authorization be suspended pending the final determination resulting from the procedures in this subpart.(b) Within two working days of receipt of the recommendation from the Local Director of Security to suspend the individual's DOE access authorization, the Manager shall review the matter and authorize continuation or suspension of access authorization. The access authorization of an individual shall not be suspended except by the direction of the Manager. This authority to suspend access authorization may not be delegated but may be exercised by a person who has been designated in writing as Acting Manager.(c) Upon suspension of an individual's access authorization pursuant to paragraph (b) of this section, the individual, the individual's employer, any other DOE Operations Office having an access authorization interest in the individual, and, if known, any other government agency where the individual holds an access authorization, security clearance, or access approval, or to which the DOE has certified the individual's DOE access authorization, shall be notified immediately. The Central Personnel Clearance Index shall also be updated. Notification to the individual shall be made in writing and shall reflect, in general terms, the reason(s) why the suspension has been effected. Pending final determination of the individual's eligibility for access authorization from the operation of the procedures provided in this subpart, the individual shall not be afforded access to classified matter, special nuclear material, or unescorted access to security areas that require the individual to possess a DOE access authorization.(d) Following the decision to suspend an individual's DOE access authorization, the Manager shall immediately notify the Director, Office of Personnel Security, DOE Headquarters, of the action and the reason(s) therefore. In addition, the Manager, within 10 calendar days of the date of suspension, shall notify the Director of his proposal to conduct an administrative review proceeding, accompanied by an explanation of its basis and a duplicate Personnel Security File.(e) Upon receipt of the Manager's notification, the Director, Office of Personnel Security, shall review the matter and confer with the Manager on:(1) The institution of administrative review procedures set forth in §§710.20 through 710.32;(2) The reinstatement of access authorization; or(3) Other actions as the Director deems appropriate.(f) The Director, Office of Personnel Security, shall act pursuant to one of these options within 30 calendar days of the receipt of the Manager's notification unless an extension is granted by the Principal Deputy Chief for Mission Support Operations, Office of Health, Safety and Security.
[59 FR 35185, July 8, 1994, as amended at 66 FR 47064, Sept. 11, 2001; 71 FR 68730, Nov. 28, 2006]
§710.20 Purpose of administrative review.These procedures establish methods for the conduct of the administrative review of questions concerning an individual's eligibility for access authorization when it is determined that such questions cannot be favorably resolved by interview or other action. Back to Top
§710.21 Notice to the individual.(a) Unless an extension is authorized by the Director, Office of Personnel Security, DOE Headquarters, within 30 calendar days of receipt of authority to institute administrative review procedures, the Manager shall prepare and deliver to the individual a notification letter approved by the local Office of Chief Counsel, or the Office of General Counsel for Headquarters cases. Where practicable, the letter shall be delivered to the individual in person.(b) The letter shall state: (1) That reliable information in the possession of DOE has created a substantial doubt concerning the individual's eligibility for access authorization. (2) The information which creates a substantial doubt regarding the individual's access authorization eligibility (which shall be as comprehensive and detailed as the national security permits) and why that information creates such doubt.(3) That the individual has the option to have the substantial doubt regarding eligibility for access authorization resolved in one of two ways: (i) By the Manager, without a hearing, on the basis of the existing information in the case; (ii) By personal appearance before a Administrative Judge (a “hearing”). (4) That, if the individual desires a hearing, the individual must, within 20 calendar days of the date of receipt of the notification letter, indicate this in writing to the Manager from whom the letter was received. (5) That the individual may also file with the Manager the individual's written answer to the reported information which raises the question of the individual's eligibility for access authorization, and that, if the individual requests a hearing without filing a written answer, the request shall be deemed a general denial of all of the reported information. (6) That, if the individual so requests, a hearing will be scheduled before a Administrative Judge, with due regard for the convenience and necessity of the parties or their representatives, for the purpose of affording the individual an opportunity of supporting his eligibility for access authorization; (7) That, if a hearing is requested, the individual will have the right to appear personally before a Administrative Judge; to present evidence in his own behalf, through witnesses, or by documents, or both; and, subject to the limitations set forth in §710.26(g), to be present during the entire hearing and be accompanied, represented, and advised by counsel or representative of the individual's choosing and at the individual's own expense; (8) That the individual's failure to file a timely written request for a hearing before a Administrative Judge in accordance with paragraph (b)(4) of this section, unless time deadlines are extended for good cause, will be considered as a relinquishment by the individual of the right to a hearing provided in this subpart, and that in such event a final decision will be made by the Manager; and (9) That in any proceedings under this subpart DOE Counsel will be participating on behalf of and representing the Department of Energy, and that any statements made by the individual to DOE Counsel may be used in subsequent proceedings. (c) The notification letter referenced in paragraph (b) of this section shall also:(1) Describe the individual's access authorization status until further notice;(2) Advise the individual of the right to representation at the individual's own expense at each and every stage of the proceedings;(3) Provide the name and telephone number of the designated DOE official to contact for any further information desired concerning the proceedings, including an explanation of the individual's rights under the Freedom of Information and Privacy Acts; and(4) Include a copy of this subpart.
§710.22 Initial decision process.(a) The Manager shall make an initial decision as to the individual's access authorization eligibility based on the existing information in the case if:(1) The individual fails to respond to the notification letter by filing a timely written request for a hearing before a Administrative Judge or fails to respond to the notification letter after requesting an extension of time to do so;(2) The individual's response to the notification letter does not request a hearing before a Administrative Judge; or(3) The Administrative Judge refers the individual's case to the Manager in accordance with §710.25(e) or §710.26(b).(b) Unless an extension of time is granted by the Director, Office of Personnel Security, DOE Headquarters, the Manager's initial decision as to the individual's access authorization eligibility shall be made within 15 calendar days of the date of receipt of the information in paragraph (a) of this section. The Manager shall either grant or deny, or reinstate or revoke, the individual's access authorization.(c) A letter reflecting the Manager's initial decision in the individual's case shall be signed by the Manager and delivered to the individual within 15 calendar days of the date of the Manager's decision unless an extension of time is granted by the Director, Office of Personnel Security, DOE Headquarters. If the Manager's initial decision is unfavorable to the individual, the individual shall be advised:(1) Of the Manager's unfavorable decision and the reason(s) therefor;(2) That within 30 calendar days from the date of receipt of the letter, he may file a written request for a review of the Manager's initial decision through the Director, Office of Personnel Security, DOE Headquarters, to the DOE Headquarters Appeal Panel (hereafter referred to as the “Appeal Panel”);(3) That the Director, Office of Personnel Security, DOE Headquarters, may, for good cause shown, at the written request of the individual, extend the time for filing a written request for a review of the case by the Appeal Panel; and(4) That if the written request for a review of the Manager's initial decision by the Appeal Panel is not filed within 30 calendar days of the individual's receipt of the Manager's letter, the Manager's initial decision in the case shall be final.
[66 FR 47064, Sept. 11, 2001, as amended at 71 FR 68730, Nov. 28, 2006]
§710.23 Extensions of time by the Manager.The Manager may, for good cause shown, at the written request of the individual, extend the time for filing a written request for a hearing, and/or the time for filing a written answer to the matters contained in the notification letter. The Manager shall notify the Director, Office of Personnel Security, DOE Headquarters, when such extensions have been approved.
[59 FR 35185, July 8, 1994, as amended at 71 FR 68730, Nov. 28, 2006]
§710.24 Appointment of DOE Counsel.(a) Upon receipt from the individual of a written request for a hearing, an attorney shall forthwith be assigned by the Manager to act as DOE Counsel. (b) DOE Counsel is authorized to consult directly with the individual if he is not represented by counsel, or with the individual's counsel or representative if so represented, to clarify issues and reach stipulations with respect to testimony and contents of documents and other physical evidence. Such stipulations shall be binding upon the individual and the DOE Counsel for the purposes of this subpart. Back to Top
§710.25 Appointment of Administrative Judge; prehearing conference; commencement of hearings.(a) Upon receipt of a request for a hearing, the Manager shall in a timely manner transmit that request to the Office of Hearings and Appeals, and identify the DOE Counsel. The Manager shall at the same time transmit a copy of the notification letter and the individual's response to the Office of Hearings and Appeals. (b) Upon receipt of the hearing request from the Manager, the Director, Office of Hearings and Appeals, shall appoint, as soon as practicable, a Administrative Judge. (c) Immediately upon appointment of the Administrative Judge, the Office of Hearings and Appeals shall notify the individual and DOE Counsel of the Administrative Judge's identity and the address to which all further correspondence should be sent. (d) The Administrative Judge shall have all powers necessary to regulate the conduct of proceedings under this subpart, including, but not limited to, establishing a list of persons to receive service of papers, issuing subpoenas for witnesses to attend the hearing or for the production of specific documents or other physical evidence, administering oaths and affirmations, ruling upon motions, receiving evidence, regulating the course of the hearing, disposing of procedural requests or similar matters, and taking other actions consistent with the regulations in this subpart. Requests for subpoenas shall be liberally granted except where the Administrative Judge finds that the grant of subpoenas would clearly result in evidence or testimony that is repetitious, incompetent, irrelevant, or immaterial to the issues in the case. The Administrative Judge may take sworn testimony, sequester witnesses, and control the dissemination or reproduction of any record or testimony taken pursuant to this part, including correspondence, or other relevant records or tangible evidence including, but not limited to, information retained in computerized or other automated systems in possession of the subpoenaed person. (e) The Administrative Judge will determine the day, time, and place for the hearing. Hearings will normally be held at or near the appropriate DOE facility, unless the Administrative Judge determines that another location would be more appropriate. Normally the location for the hearing will be selected for the convenience of all participants. In the event the individual fails to appear at the time and place specified, the record in the case shall be closed and returned to the Manager, who will then make a final determination regarding the eligibility of the individual for DOE access authorization. (f) At least 7 calendar days prior to the date scheduled for the hearing, the Administrative Judge will convene a prehearing conference for the purpose of discussing stipulations and exhibits, identifying witnesses, and disposing of other appropriate matters. The conference will usually be conducted by telephone. (g) Hearings shall commence within 90 calendar days from the date the individual's request for hearing is received by the Office of Hearings and Appeals. Any extension of the hearing date past 90 calendar days from the date the request for hearing is received by the Office of Hearings and Appeals shall be approved by the Director, Office of Hearings and Appeals. Back to Top
§710.26 Conduct of hearings.(a) In all hearings conducted under this subpart, the individual shall have the right to be represented by a person of his own choosing. The individual is responsible for producing witnesses in his own behalf, including requesting the issuance of subpoenas, if necessary, or presenting other proof before the Administrative Judge to support his defense to the allegations contained in the notification letter. With the exception of procedural or scheduling matters, the Administrative Judge is prohibited from initiating or otherwise engaging in ex parte discussions about the case during the pendency of proceedings under this part. (b) Unless the Administrative Judge finds good cause for granting a waiver of this paragraph or granting an extension of time, in the event that the individual unduly delays the hearing, such as by failure to meet deadlines set by the Administrative Judge, the record shall be closed, and a final decision shall be made by the Manager on the basis of the record in the case. (c) Hearings shall be open only to DOE Counsel, duly authorized representatives of the staff of DOE, the individual and his counsel or other representatives, and such other persons as may be authorized by the Administrative Judge. Unless otherwise ordered by the Administrative Judge, witnesses shall testify in the presence of the individual but not in the presence of other witnesses. (d) DOE Counsel shall assist the Administrative Judge in establishing a complete administrative hearing record in the proceeding and bringing out a full and true disclosure of all facts, both favorable and unfavorable, having a bearing on the issues before the Administrative Judge. The individual shall be afforded the opportunity of presenting evidence, including testimony by the individual in the individual's own behalf. The proponent of a witness shall conduct the direct examination of that witness. All witnesses shall be subject to cross- examination, if possible. Whenever reasonably possible, testimony shall be given in person. (e) The Administrative Judge may ask the witnesses any questions which the Administrative Judge deems appropriate to assure the fullest possible disclosure of relevant and material facts.(f) During the course of the hearing, the Administrative Judge shall rule on all questions presented to the Administrative Judge for the Administrative Judge's determination.(g) In the event it appears during the course of the hearing that Restricted Data or national security information may be disclosed, it shall be the duty of the Administrative Judge to assure that disclosure is not made to persons who are not authorized to receive it.(h) Formal rules of evidence shall not apply, but the Federal Rules of Evidence may be used as a guide for procedures and principles designed to assure production of the most probative evidence available. The Administrative Judge shall admit into evidence any matters, either oral or written, which are material, relevant, and competent in determining issues involved, including the testimony of responsible persons concerning the integrity of the individual. In making such determinations, the utmost latitude shall be permitted with respect to relevancy, materiality, and competency. The Administrative Judge may also exclude evidence which is incompetent, immaterial, irrelevant, or unduly repetitious. Every reasonable effort shall be made to obtain the best evidence available. Subject to §§710.26(1), 710.26(m), 710.(n), 710.26(o), hearsay evidence may in the discretion of the Administrative Judge and for good cause shown be admitted without strict adherence to technical rules of admissibility and shall be accorded such weight as the circumstances warrant.(i) Testimony of the individual and witnesses shall be given under oath or affirmation. Attention of the individual and each witness shall be directed to 18 U.S.C. 1001 and 18 U.S.C. 1621.(j) The Administrative Judge shall endeavor to obtain all the facts that are reasonably available in order to arrive at findings. If, prior to or during the proceedings, in the opinion of the Administrative Judge, the allegations in the notification letter are not sufficient to cover all matters into which inquiry should be directed, the Administrative Judge shall recommend to the Manager concerned that, in order to give more adequate notice to the individual, the notification letter should be amended. Any amendment shall be made with the concurrence of the local Office of Chief Counsel or the Office of General Counsel in Headquarters cases. If, in the opinion of the Administrative Judge, the circumstances of such amendment may involve undue hardships to the individual because of limited time to answer the new allegations in the notification letter, an appropriate adjournment shall be granted upon the request of the individual.(k) A written or oral statement of a person relating to the characterization in the notification letter of any organization or person other than the individual may be received and considered by the Administrative Judge without affording the individual an opportunity to cross-examine the person making the statement on matters relating to the characterization of such organization or person, provided the individual is given notice that it has been received and may be considered by the Administrative Judge, and is informed of its contents provided such is not prohibited by paragraph (g) of this section.(l) Any oral or written statement adverse to the individual relating to a controverted issue may be received and considered by the Administrative Judge without affording an opportunity for cross-examination in either of the following circumstances:(1) The head of the agency supplying the statement certifies that the person who furnished the information is a confidential informant who has been engaged in obtaining intelligence information for the Government and that disclosure of the informant's identity would be substantially harmful to the national interest;(2) The Secretary or his special designee for that particular purpose has preliminarily determined, after considering information furnished by the investigative agency as to the reliability of the person and the accuracy of the statement concerned, that:(i) The statement concerned appears to be reliable and material; and(ii) Failure of the Administrative Judge to receive and consider such statement would, in view of the access sought to Restricted Data, national security information, or special nuclear material, be substantially harmful to the national security and that the person who furnished the information cannot appear to testify(A) Due to death, severe illness, or similar cause, in which case the identity of the person and the information to be considered shall be made available to the individual, or(B) Due to some other specified cause determined by the head of the agency to be good and sufficient.(m) Whenever procedures under paragraph (l) of this section are used:(1) The individual shall be given a summary or description of the information which shall be as comprehensive and detailed as the national interest permits, and(2) Appropriate consideration shall be accorded to the fact that the individual did not have an opportunity to cross-examine such person(s).(n) Records compiled in the regular course of business, or other physical evidence other than investigative reports obtained by DOE, may be received and considered subject to rebuttal without authenticating witnesses provided that such information has been furnished to DOE by an investigative agency pursuant to its responsibilities in connection with assisting the Secretary to safeguard Restricted Data, national security information, or special nuclear material.(o) Records compiled in the regular course of business, or other physical evidence other than investigative reports, relating to a controverted issue which, because they are classified, may not be inspected by the individual, may be received and considered provided that:(1) The Secretary or his special designee for that particular purpose has made a preliminary determination that such physical evidence appears to be material;(2) The Secretary or his special designee for that particular purpose has made a determination that failure to receive and consider such physical evidence would, in view of the access sought to Restricted Data, national security information, or special nuclear material sought, be substantially harmful to the national security; and(3) To the extent that national security permits, a summary or description of such physical evidence is made available to the individual. In every such case, information as to the authenticity and accuracy of such physical evidence furnished by the investigative agency shall be considered.(p) The Administrative Judge may request the Local Director of Security to arrange for additional investigation on any points which are material to the deliberations of the Administrative Judge and which the Administrative Judge believes need further investigation or clarification. In this event, the Administrative Judge shall set forth in writing those issues upon which more evidence is requested, identifying where possible persons or sources from which the evidence should be sought. The Local Director of Security shall make every effort through appropriate sources to obtain additional information upon the matters indicated by the Administrative Judge.(q) A written transcript of the entire proceedings shall be made and, except for portions containing Restricted Data or national security information, a copy of such transcript shall be furnished the individual without cost.(r) Whenever information is made a part of the record under the exceptions authorized by paragraphs (l) or (o) of this section, the record shall contain certificates evidencing that the determinations required therein have been made.
§710.27 Administrative Judge's decision.(a) The Administrative Judge shall carefully consider the record in view of the standards set forth herein and shall render a decision as to whether the grant or restoration of access authorization to the individual would not endanger the common defense and security and would be clearly consistent with the national interest. In resolving a question concerning the eligibility of an individual for access authorization under these procedures, the Administrative Judge shall consider the factors stated in paragraph 710.7(c) to determine whether the findings will be adverse or favorable.(b) In reaching the findings, the Administrative Judge shall consider the demeanor of the witnesses who have testified at the hearing, the probability or likelihood of the truth of their testimony, their credibility, and the authenticity and accuracy of documentary evidence, or lack of evidence on any material points in issue. If the individual is, or may be, handicapped by the non-disclosure to the individual of confidential information or by lack of opportunity to cross-examine confidential informants, the Administrative Judgeshall take that fact into consideration. Possible impact of the loss of the individual's access authorization upon the DOE program shall not be considered by the Administrative Judge.(c) The Administrative Judge shall make specific findings based upon the record as to the validity of each of the allegations contained in the notification letter and the significance which the Administrative Judge attaches to such valid allegations. These findings shall be supported fully by a statement of reasons which constitute the basis for such findings.(d) The Administrative Judge's decision shall be based on the Administrative Judge 's findings of fact. If, after considering all of the factors in light of the criteria set forth in this subpart, the Administrative Judge is of the opinion that it will not endanger the common defense and security and will be clearly consistent with the national interest to grant or reinstate access authorization for the individual, the Administrative Judge shall render a favorable decision; otherwise, the Administrative Judge shall render an unfavorable decision. Within 15 calendar days of the Administrative Judge's written decision, the Administrative Judge shall provide copies of the decision and the administrative record to the Manager and the Director, Office of Personnel Security, DOE Headquarters.
[59 FR 35185, July 8, 1994, as amended at 66 FR 47065, Sept. 11, 2001; 71 FR 68730, Nov. 28, 2006]
§710.28 Action on the Administrative Judge's decision.(a) Within 10 calendar days of receipt of the decision and the administrative record, unless an extension of time is granted by the Director, Office of Personnel Security, DOE Headquarters, the Manager shall:(1) Notify the individual in writing of the Administrative Judge's decision;(2) Advise the individual in writing of the appeal procedures available to the individual in paragraph (b) of this section if the decision is unfavorable to the individual;(3) Advise the individual in writing of the appeal procedures available to the Manager and the Director, Office of Personnel Security, DOE Headquarters, in paragraph (c) of this section if the decision is favorable to the individual; and,(4) Provide the individual and/or counsel or representative, a copy of the Administrative Judge's decision and the administrative record.(b) If the Administrative Judge's decision is unfavorable to the individual:(1) The individual may file with the Director, Office of Personnel Security, DOE Headquarters, a written request for further review of the decision by the Appeal Panel along with a statement required by paragraph (e) of this section within 30 calendar days of the individual's receipt of the Manager's notice;(2) The Director, Office of Personnel Security, DOE Headquarters may, for good cause shown, extend the time for filing a request for further review of the decision by the Appeal Panel at the written request of the individual provided the request for an extension of time is filed by the individual within 30 calendar days of receipt of the Manager's notice;(3) The Administrative Judge's decision shall be considered final if the individual does not: file a written request for a review of the decision by the Appeal Panel or for an extension of time to file a written request for further review of the decision by the Appeal Panel in accordance with paragraphs (b)(1) or (b)(2) of this section; or, file a written request for a further review of the decision by the Appeal Panel after having been granted an extension of time to do so.(c) If the Administrative Judge's decision is favorable to the individual, within 30 calendar days of the individual's receipt of the Manager's notice:(1) The Manager or the Director, Office of Personnel Security, DOE Headquarters, may file a written request for further review of the decision by the Appeal Panel along with the statement required by paragraph (e) of this section;(2) The Principal Deputy Chief for Mission Support Operations, Office of Health, Safety and Security, may, at the written request of the Manager or Director, Office of Personnel Security, DOE Headquarters, extend the time for filing a request for further review of the decision by the Appeal Panel; or(3) The Manager, with the concurrence of the Director, Office of Personnel Security, DOE Headquarters, shall grant or reinstate the individual's access authorization.(d) A copy of any request for further review of the individual's case by the Appeal Panel filed by the Manager or the Director, Office of Personnel Security, shall be provided to the individual by the Manager.(e) The party filing a request for review of the individual's case by the Appeal Panel shall include with the request a statement identifying the issues on which it wishes the Appeal Panel to focus. A copy of such statement shall be served on the other party, who may file a response with the Appeal Panel within 20 calendar days of receipt of the statement.
[66 FR 47065, Sept. 11, 2001, as amended at 71 FR 68730, Nov. 28, 2006]
§710.29 Final appeal process.(a) The Appeal Panel shall be convened by the Principal Deputy Chief for Mission Support Operations, Office of Health, Safety and Security, to review and render a final decision in an access authorization eligibility case referred by the individual, the Manager, or the Director, Office of Personnel Security, in accordance with §§710.22, 710.28, and 710.32.(b) The Appeal Panel shall consist of three members, each of whom shall be a DOE Headquarters employee, a United States citizen, and hold a DOE Q access authorization. The Principal Deputy Chief for Mission Support Operations, Office of Health, Safety and Security, shall serve as a permanent member of the Appeal Panel and as the Appeal Panel Chairman. The second member of the Appeal Panel shall be a DOE attorney designated by the General Counsel. The head of the DOE Headquarters element who has cognizance over the individual whose access authorization eligibility is being considered may designate an employee to act as the third member on the Appeal Panel; otherwise, the third member will be designated by the Chairman. Only one member of the Appeal Panel shall be from the security field.(c) In filing a written request for a review by the Appeal Panel in accordance with §§710.22 and 710.28, the individual, or the counsel or representative, shall identify the relevant issues and may also submit any relevant material in support of the individual. The individual's written request and supportive material shall be made a part of the administrative record. The Director, Office of Personnel Security, shall provide staff support to the Appeal Panel as requested by the Principal Deputy Chief for Mission Support Operations, Office of Health, Safety and Security.(d) Within 15 calendar days from the date of receipt of a request for a review of a case by the Appeal Panel, the Principal Deputy Chief for Mission Support Operations, Office of Health, Safety and Security, shall:(1) Request the General Counsel to designate an attorney who shall serve as an Appeal Panel member;(2) Either request the head of the cognizant DOE element to designate, or himself designate, an employee from outside the security field who shall serve as the third member of the Appeal Panel; and(3) Arrange for the Appeal Panel members to convene to review the administrative record or provide a copy of the administrative record to the other Appeal Panel members for their independent review.(e) The Appeal Panel may initiate an investigation of any statement or material contained in the request for an Appeal Panel review and use any relevant facts obtained by such investigation in the conduct of the final decision process. The Appeal Panel may solicit and accept submissions from either the individual or DOE officials that are relevant to the final decision process and may establish appropriate time frames to allow for such submissions. The Appeal Panel may also consider any other source of information that will advance the final decision process, provided that both parties are afforded an opportunity to respond to all third party submissions. All information obtained by the Appeal Panel under this section shall be made a part of the administrative record.(f) Within 45 work days of the closing of the administrative record, the Appeal Panel shall render a final written decision in the case predicated upon an evaluation of the administrative record, findings as to each of the allegations contained in the notification letter, and any new evidence that may have been submitted pursuant to §710.30. If a majority of the Appeal Panel members determine that it will not endanger the common defense and security and will be clearly consistent with the national interest, the Principal Deputy Chief for Mission Support Operations, Office of Health, Safety and Security, shall grant or reinstate access authorization for the individual; otherwise, he shall deny or revoke access authorization for the individual. The Appeal Panel written decision shall be made a part of the administrative record.(g) The Principal Deputy Chief for Mission Support Operations, Office of Health, Safety and Security, through the Director, Office of Personnel Security, shall inform in writing the individual involved and counsel or representative of the Appeal Panel's final decision. A copy of the correspondence shall also be provided to the other panel members and the Manager.(h) If, upon receipt of a written request for a review of the individual's case by the Appeal Panel, the Principal Deputy Chief for Mission Support Operations, Office of Health, Safety and Security, is aware or subsequently becomes aware of information that the individual is the subject of an unresolved inquiry or investigation of a matter that could reasonably be expected to affect the individual's DOE access authorization eligibility, the Principal Deputy Chief for Mission Support Operations may defer action by the Appeal Panel on the request until the inquiry or investigation is completed and its results available for review by the Appeal Panel. In such instances, the Principal Deputy Chief for Mission Support Operations, shall:(1) Obtain written approval from the Secretary to defer review of the individual's case by the Appeal Panel for an initial interval not to exceed 90 calendar days;(2) Advise the individual and appropriate DOE officials in writing of the initial deferral and the reason(s) therefor;(3) Request that the individual's employment status not be affected during the initial and any subsequent deferral interval, except at the written request of the individual;(4) Obtain written approval from the Secretary to extend the deferral for each subsequent 90 calendar day interval and advise in writing all concerned parties of the Secretary's approval;(5) Inform in writing all concerned parties when the inquiry or investigation has been completed and the results made available to the Appeal Panel.(i) If, upon receipt of a written request for review of an individual's case by the Appeal Panel, the Principal Deputy Chief for Mission Support Operations, Office of Health, Safety and Security, is aware or subsequently becomes aware of information that adversely affects the individual's DOE access authorization eligibility and that cannot for national security reasons be disclosed in the proceedings before a DOE Administrative Judge, the Principal Deputy Chief for Mission Support Operations may refer the information and the administrative record to the Secretary for the final decision as to the individual's DOE access authorization eligibility. In such instances, the Principal Deputy Chief for Mission Support Operations shall notify in writing all concerned parties that the individual's case has been provided to the Secretary for a final decision in accordance with §710.31.(j) Upon the recommendation of the Appeal Panel, the Secretary may exercise the appeal authority of the Appeal Panel. If the Secretary exercises the appeal authority, then the decision of the Secretary is final.
[66 FR 47065, Sept. 11, 2001, as amended at 71 FR 68731, Nov. 28, 2006]
§710.30 New evidence.(a) In the event of the discovery of new evidence relevant to the allegations contained in the notification letter prior to final decision of the individual's eligibility for access authorization, such evidence shall be submitted by the offering party to the Director, Office of Personnel Security, DOE Headquarters. DOE Counsel shall notify the individual of any new evidence submitted by DOE.(b) The Director, Office of Personnel Security, DOE Headquarters, shall:(1) Refer the matter to the Administrative Judge appointed in the individual's case if the Administrative Judge has not yet issued a decision. The Administrative Judge receiving the application for the presentation of new evidence shall determine the appropriate form in which any new evidence, and the other party's response, shall be received, e.g., by testimony before the Administrative Judge, by deposition or by affidavit.(2) In those cases where the Administrative Judge's decision has been issued, the application for presentation of new evidence shall be referred to the Principal Deputy Chief for Mission Support Operations, Office of Health, Safety and Security. In the event that the Principal Deputy Chief for Mission Support Operations, determines that the new evidence shall be received, he shall determine the form in which it, and the other party's response, shall be received.(c) When new evidence submitted by either party is received into the record, the opposing party shall be afforded the opportunity to cross-examine the source of the new information or to submit a written response, unless the information is subject to the exceptions in §710.26 (l) or (o).
[59 FR 35185, July 8, 1994. Redesignated and amended at 66 FR 47065, 47066, Sept. 11, 2001; 71 FR 68731, Nov. 28, 2006]
§710.31 Action by the Secretary.(a) Whenever an individual has not been afforded an opportunity to cross-examine witnesses who have furnished information adverse to the individual under the provisions of §§710.26(l) or (o), or the opportunity to review and respond to the information provided by the Principal Deputy Chief for Mission Support Operations, Office of Health, Safety and Security, to the Secretary under §710.29(i), only the Secretary may issue a final decision to deny or revoke DOE access authorization for the individual after personally reviewing the administrative record and any additional material provided by the Principal Deputy Chief for Mission Support Operations, Office of Health, Safety and Security. The Secretary's authority may not be delegated and may be exercised only when the Secretary determines that the circumstances described in §710.26(l) or (o), or §710.29(i) are present, and such determination shall be final.(b) Whenever the Secretary issues a final decision as to the individual's DOE access authorization eligibility, the individual and other concerned parties will be notified in writing, by the Principal Deputy Chief for Mission Support Operations, Office of Health, Safety and Security, of that decision and of the Secretary's findings with respect to each of the allegations contained in the notification letter and each substantial issue identified in the statement in support of the request for review to the extent allowed by the national security.(c) Nothing contained in these procedures shall be deemed to limit or affect the responsibility and powers of the Secretary to issue subpoenas or to deny or revoke access to Restricted Data, national security information, or special nuclear material.(d) Only the Secretary may approve initial and subsequent requests under §710.29(h) by the Principal Deputy Chief for Mission Support Operations, Office of Health, Safety and Security, to defer the review of an individual's case by the Appeal Panel.
[66 FR 47066, Sept. 11, 2001, as amended at 71 FR 68731, Nov. 28, 2006]
§710.32 Reconsideration of access eligibility.(a) If, pursuant to the procedures set forth in §§710.20 through 710.31 the Manager, Administrative Judge, Appeal Panel, or the Secretary has made a decision granting or reinstating access authorization for an individual, the individual's access authorization eligibility shall be reconsidered as a new administrative review under the procedures set forth in this subpart when previously unconsidered derogatory information is identified, or the individual violates a commitment or promise upon which the DOE previously relied to favorably resolve an issue of access authorization eligibility.(b) If, pursuant to the procedures set forth in §§710.20 through 710.31 the Manager, Administrative Judge, Appeal Panel, or the Secretary has made a decision denying or revoking access authorization for the individual, the individual's access authorization eligibility may be reconsidered only when the individual so requests, when there is a bona fide offer of employment requiring access to Restricted Data, national security information, or special nuclear material, and when there is either:(1) Material and relevant new evidence which the individual and the individual's representatives are without fault in failing to present earlier, or(2) Convincing evidence of rehabilitation or reformation.(c) A request for reconsideration shall be submitted in writing to the Principal Deputy Chief for Mission Support Operations, Office of Health, Safety and Security, accompanied by an affidavit setting forth in detail the new evidence or evidence of rehabilitation or reformation. If the Principal Deputy Chief for Mission Support Operations, determines that the regulatory requirements for reconsideration have been met, the Director shall notify the individual that the individual's access authorization shall be reconsidered in accordance with established procedures for determining eligibility for access authorizations.(d) If the individual's access authorization is not reinstated following reconsideration, the individual shall be advised by the Director, Office of Personnel Security, DOE Headquarters, in writing:(1) Of the unfavorable action and the reason(s) therefor; and(2) That within 30 calendar days from the date of receipt of the notification, he may file, through the Director, Office of Personnel Security, DOE Headquarters, DOE Headquarters, a written request for a review of the decision by the Appeal Panel, in accordance with §710.29.
§710.33 Terminations.If the individual is no longer an applicant for access authorization or no longer requires access authorization, the procedures of this subpart shall be terminated without a final decision as to the individual's access authorization eligibility, unless a final decision has been rendered prior to the DOE being notified of the change in the individual's pending access authorization status.
[66 FR 47067, Sept. 11, 2001]
§710.34 Attorney representation.In the event the individual is represented by an attorney or other representatives, the individual shall file with the Administrative Judge and DOE Counsel a document designating such attorney or representatives and authorizing one such attorney or representative to receive all correspondence, transcripts, and other documents pertaining to the proceeding under this subpart. [59 FR 35185, July 8, 1994. Redesignated at 66 FR 47065, Sept. 11, 2001]
§710.35 Time frames.Statements of time established for processing aspects of a case under this subpart are the agency's desired time frames in implementing the procedures set forth in this subpart. However, failure to meet the time frames shall have no impact upon the final disposition of an access authorization by a Manager, Administrative Judge, the Appeal Panel, or the Secretary, and shall confer no procedural or substantive rights upon an individual whose access authorization eligibility is being considered.
§710.36 Acting officials.Except for the Secretary, the responsibilities and authorities conferred in this subpart may be exercised by persons who have been designated in writing as acting for, or in the temporary capacity of, the following DOE positions: The Local Director of Security; the Manager; the Director, Office of Personnel Security, DOE Headquarters; or the General Counsel. The responsibilities and authorities of the Principal Deputy Chief for Mission Support Operations, 1Office of Health, Safety and Security, may be exercised by persons in security-related Senior Executive Service positions within the Office of Health, Safety and Security who have been designated in writing as acting for, or in the temporary capacity of, the Principal Deputy Chief for Mission Support Operations, with the approval of the Chief Health, Safety and Security Officer.
[77 FR 71691, Dec. 4, 2012]
(By authority of the Department of Energy Organization Act, 42 U.S.C. 7151(a), the Secretary of Energy or her designated representative is to be substituted for the “Commission” and “General Manager” as appropriate.) Sec. 141. Policy. It shall be the policy of the Commission to control the dissemination and declassification of Restricted Data in such a manner as to assure the common defense and security. * * * Sec. 145. Restriction. (a) No arrangement shall be made under section 31, no contract shall be made or continued in effect under section 141, and no license shall be issued under section 103 or 104, unless the person with whom such arrangement is made, the contractor or prospective contractor, or the prospective licensee agrees in writing not to permit any individual to have access to Restricted Data until the Civil Service Commission shall have made an investigation and report to the Commission on the character, associations, and loyalty of such individual, and the Commission shall have determined that permitting such person to have access to Restricted Data will not endanger the common defense and security. (b) Except as authorized by the Commission or the General Manager upon a determination by the Commission or General Manager that such action is clearly consistent with the national interest, no individual shall be employed by the Commission nor shall the Commission permit any individual to have access to Restricted Data until the Civil Service Commission shall have made an investigation and report to the Commission on the character, associations, and loyalty of such individual, and the Commission shall have determined that permitting such person to have access to Restricted Data will not endanger the common defense and security. (c) In lieu of the investigation and report to be made by the Civil Service Commission pursuant to subsection (b) of this appendix, the Commission may accept an investigation and report on the character, associations, and loyalty of an individual made by another Government agency which conducts personnel security investigations, provided that a security clearance has been granted to such individual by another Government agency based on such investigation and report. (d) In the event an investigation made pursuant to subsections (a) and (b) of this appendix develops any data reflecting that the individual who is the subject of the investigation is of questionable loyalty, the Civil Service Commission shall refer the matter to the Federal Bureau of Investigation for the conduct of a full field investigation, the results of which shall be furnished to the Civil Service Commission for its information and appropriate action. (e) If the President deems it to be in the national interest he may from time to time determine that investigations of any group or class which are required by subsections (a), (b), and (c) of this appendix be made by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. (f) Notwithstanding the provisions of subsections (a), (b), and (c) of this appendix, a majority of the members of the Commission shall certify those specific positions which are of a high degree of importance or sensitivity, and upon such certification, the investigation and reports required by such provisions shall be made by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. (g) The Commission shall establish standards and specifications in writing as to the scope and extent of investigations, the reports of which will be utilized by the Commission in making the determination, pursuant to subsections (a), (b), and (c) of this appendix, that permitting a person access to Restricted Data will not endanger the common defense and security. Such standards and specifications shall be based on the location and class or kind of work to be done, and shall, among other considerations, take into account the degree of importance to the common defense and security of the Restricted Data to which access will be permitted. (h) Whenever the Congress declares that a state of war exists, or in the event of a national disaster due to enemy attack, the Commission is authorized during the state of war or period of national disaster due to enemy attack to employ individuals and to permit individuals access to Restricted Data pending the investigation report, and determination required by section 145b, to the extent that and so long as the Commission finds that such action is required to prevent impairment of its activities in furtherance of the common defense and security. Sec. 161. General provisions. In the performance of its functions the Commission is authorized to: (a) Establish advisory boards to advise with and make recommendations to the Commission on legislation, policies, administration, research, and other matters, provided that the Commission issues regulations setting forth the scope, procedure, and limitations of the authority of each such board; (b) Establish by rule, regulation, or order, such standards and instructions to govern the possession and use of special nuclear material, source material, and byproduct material as the Commission may deem necessary or desirable to promote the common defense and security or to protect health or to minimize danger to life or property; (c) Make such studies and investigations, obtain such information, and hold such meetings or hearings as the Commission may deem necessary or proper to assist it in exercising any authority provided in this chapter, or in the administration or enforcement of this Act, or any regulations or orders issued thereunder. For such purposes the Commission is authorized to administer oaths and affirmations, and by subpoena to require any person to appear and testify, or to appear and produce documents, or both, at any designated place. Witnesses subpoenaed under this subsection, shall be paid the same fees and mileage as are paid witnesses in the district courts of the United States. * * * * *(i) Prescribe such regulations or orders as it may deem necessary (1) to protect Restricted Data received by any person in connection with any activity authorized pursuant to this Act, (2) to guard against the loss or diversion of any special nuclear material acquired by any person pursuant to section 53 or produced by any person in connection with any activity authorized pursuant to the Act, to prevent any use or disposition thereof which the Commission may determine to be inimical to the common defense and security, including regulations or orders designating activities, involving quantities of special nuclear material which in the opinion of the Commission are important to the common defense and security, that may be conducted only by persons whose character, associations, and loyalty shall have been investigated under standards and specifications established by the Commission and as to whom the Commission shall have determined that permitting each such person to conduct the activity will not be inimical to the common defense and security, and (3) to govern any activity authorized pursuant to this Act, including standards and restrictions governing the design, location, and operation of facilities used in the conduct of such activity, in order to protect health and to minimize danger to life or property; * * * * *(n) Delegate to the General Manager or other officers of the Commission any of those functions assigned to it under this Act except those specified in sections 51, 57b, 61, 108, 123, 145b (with respect to the determination of those persons to whom the Commission may reveal Restricted Data in the national interest), 145f, and 161a; * * * * *(p) Make, promulgate, issue, rescind, and amend such rules and regulations as may be necessary to carry out the purposes of this Act. 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(The following guidelines, included in this subpart for reference purposes only, are reproduced as provided to the DOE by the Security Policy Board. The President may change the guidelines without notice.)
1. Introduction. The following adjudicative guidelines are established for all U.S. government civilian and military personnel, consultants, contractors, employees of contractors, licensees, certificate holders or grantees and their employees and other individuals who require access to classified information. They apply to persons being considered for initial or continued eligibility for access to classified information, to include sensitive compartmented information and special access programs and are to be used by government departments and agencies in all final clearance determinations.2. The Adjudicative Process.(a) The adjudicative process is an examination of a sufficient period of a person's life to make an affirmative determination that the person is eligible for a security clearance. Eligibility for access to classified information is predicated upon the individual meeting these personnel security guidelines. The adjudicative process is the careful weighing of a number of variables known as the whole person concept. Available, reliable information about the person, past and present, favorable and unfavorable, should be considered in reaching a determination. In evaluating the relevance of an individual's conduct, the adjudicator should consider the following factors:(1) The nature, extent, and seriousness of the conduct;(2) The circumstances surrounding the conduct, to include knowledgeable participation;(3) The frequency and recency of the conduct;(4) The individual's age and maturity at the time of the conduct;(5) The voluntariness of participation;(6) The presence or absence of rehabilitation and other pertinent behavioral changes;(7) The motivation for the conduct;(8) The potential for pressure, coercion, exploitation, or duress; and(9) The likelihood of continuation or recurrence.(b) Each case must be judged on its own merits, and final determination remains the responsibility of the specific department or agency. Any doubt as to whether access to classified information is clearly consistent with national security will be resolved in favor of the national security.(c) The ultimate determination of whether the granting or continuing of eligibility for a security clearance is clearly consistent with the interests of national security must be an overall common sense determination based upon careful consideration of the following, each of which is to be evaluated in the context of the whole person concept, as explained further below:(1) Guideline A: Allegiance to the United States;(2) Guideline B: Foreign influence;(3) Guideline C: Foreign preference;(4) Guideline D: Sexual behavior;(5) Guideline E: Personal conduct;(6) Guideline F: Financial considerations;(7) Guideline G: Alcohol consumption;(8) Guideline H: Drug involvement;(9) Guideline I: Emotional, mental, and personality disorders;(10) Guideline J: Criminal Conduct;(11) Guideline K: Security violations;(12) Guideline L: Outside activities;(13) Guideline M: Misuse of Information Technology Systems.(d) Although adverse information concerning a single criterion may not be sufficient for an unfavorable determination, the individual may be disqualified if available information reflects a recent or recurring pattern of questionable judgment, irresponsibility, or emotionally unstable behavior. Notwithstanding, the whole person concept, pursuit of further investigation may be terminated by an appropriate adjudicative agency in the face of reliable, significant, disqualifying, adverse information.(e) When information of security concern becomes known about an individual who is currently eligible for access to classified information, the adjudicator should consider whether the person:(1) Voluntarily reported the information;(2) Was truthful and complete in responding to questions;(3) Sought assistance and followed professional guidance, where appropriate;(4) Resolved or appears likely to favorably resolve the security concern;(5) Has demonstrated positive changes in behavior and employment;(6) Should have his or her access temporarily suspended pending final adjudication of the information.(f) If after evaluating information of security concern, the adjudicator decides that the information is not serious enough to warrant a recommendation of disapproval or revocation of the security clearance, it may be appropriate to recommend approval with a warning that future incidents of a similar nature may result in revocation of access.
3. The Concern. An individual must be of unquestioned allegiance to the United States. The willingness to safeguard classified information is in doubt if there is any reason to suspect an individual's allegiance to the United States.4. Conditions that could raise a security concern and may be disqualifying include: (a) Involvement in any act of sabotage, espionage, treason, terrorism, sedition, or other act whose aim is to overthrow the Government of the United States or alter the form of government by unconstitutional means;(b) Association or sympathy with persons who are attempting to commit, or who are committing, any of the above acts;(c) Association or sympathy with persons or organizations that advocate the overthrow of the United States Government, or any state or subdivision, by force or violence or by other unconstitutional means;(d) Involvement in activities which unlawfully advocate or practice the commission of acts of force or violence to prevent others from exercising their rights under the Constitution or laws of the United States or of any state.5. Conditions that could mitigate security concerns include: (a) The individual was unaware of the unlawful aims of the individual or organization and severed ties upon learning of these;(b) The individual's involvement was only with the lawful or humanitarian aspects of such an organization;(c) Involvement in the above activities occurred for only a short period of time and was attributable to curiosity or academic interest;(d) The person has had no recent involvement or association with such activities.
6. The Concern. A security risk may exist when an individual's immediate family, including cohabitants and other persons to whom he or she may be bound by affection, influence, or obligation are not citizens of the United States or may be subject to duress. These situations could create the potential for foreign influence that could result in the compromise of classified information. Contacts with citizens of other countries or financial interests in other countries are also relevant to security determinations if they make an individual potentially vulnerable to coercion, exploitation, or pressure.7. Conditions that could raise a security concern and may be disqualifying include:(a) An immediate family member, or a person to whom the individual has close ties of affection or obligation, is a citizen of, or resident or present in, a foreign country.(b) Sharing living quarters with a person or persons, regardless of their citizenship status, if the potential for adverse foreign influence or duress exists;(c) Relatives, cohabitants, or associates who are connected with any foreign country;(d) Failing to report, where required, associations with foreign nationals;(e) Unauthorized association with a suspected or known collaborator or employee of a foreign intelligence service;(f) Conduct which may make the individual vulnerable to coercion, exploitation, or pressure by a foreign government;(g) Indications that representatives or nationals from a foreign country are acting to increase the vulnerability of the individual to possible future exploitation, coercion or pressure;(h) A substantial financial interest in a country, or in any foreign owned or operated business that could make the individual vulnerable to foreign influence.8. Conditions that could mitigate security concerns include:(a) A determination that the immediate family member(s) (spouse, father, mother, sons, daughters, brothers, sisters), cohabitant, or associate(s) in question are not agents of a foreign power or in a position to be exploited by a foreign power in a way that could force the individual to choose between loyalty to the person(s) involved and the United States;(b) Contacts with foreign citizens are the result of official United States Government business;(c) Contact and correspondence with foreign citizens are casual and infrequent;(d) The individual has promptly complied with existing agency requirements regarding the reporting of contacts, requests, or threats from persons or organizations from a foreign country;(e) Foreign financial interests are minimal and not sufficient to affect the individual's security responsibilities.
9. The Concern. When an individual acts in such a way as to indicate a preference for a foreign country over the United States, then he or she may be prone to provide information or make decisions that are harmful to the interests of the United States.10. Conditions that could raise a security concern and may be disqualifying include:(a) The exercise of dual citizenship;(b) Possession and/or use of a foreign passport;(c) Military service or a willingness to bear arms for a foreign country;(d) Accepting educational, medical, or other benefits, such as retirement and social welfare, from a foreign country;(e) Residence in a foreign country to meet citizenship requirements;(f) Using foreign citizenship to protect financial or business interests in another country;(g) Seeking or holding political office in the foreign country;(h) Voting in foreign elections; and(i) Performing or attempting to perform duties, or otherwise acting, so as to serve the interests of another government in preference to the interests of the United States.11. Conditions that could mitigate security concerns include: (a) Dual citizenship is based solely on parents' citizenship or birth in a foreign country;(b) Indicators of possible foreign preference (e.g., foreign military service) occurred before obtaining United States citizenship;(c) Activity is sanctioned by the United States;(d) Individual has expressed a willingness to renounce dual citizenship. Guideline D: Sexual Behavior
12. The Concern. Sexual behavior is a security concern if it involves a criminal offense, indicates a personality or emotional disorder, may subject the individual to coercion, exploitation, or duress, or reflects lack of judgment or discretion. (The adjudicator should also consider guidelines pertaining to criminal conduct (Guideline J) and emotional, mental, and personality disorders (Guideline I) in determining how to resolve the security concerns raised by sexual behavior.) Sexual orientation or preference may not be used as a basis for a disqualifying factor in determining a person's eligibility for a security clearance.13. Conditions that could raise a security concern and may be disqualifying include: (a) Sexual behavior of a criminal nature, whether or not the individual has been prosecuted;(b) Compulsive or addictive sexual behavior when the person is unable to stop a pattern of self-destructive high-risk behavior or that which is symptomatic of a personality disorder;(c) Sexual behavior that causes an individual to be vulnerable to coercion, exploitation, or duress;(d) Sexual behavior of a public nature and/or that which reflects lack of discretion or judgment.14. Conditions that could mitigate security concerns include: (a) The behavior occurred during or prior to adolescence and there is no evidence of subsequent conduct of a similar nature;(b) The behavior was not recent and there is no evidence of subsequent conduct of a similar nature;(c) There is no other evidence of questionable judgment, irresponsibility, or emotional instability;(d) The behavior no longer serves as a basis for coercion, exploitation, or duress.
15. The Concern. Conduct involving questionable judgment, untrustworthiness, unreliability, lack of candor, dishonesty, or unwillingness to comply with rules and regulations could indicate that the person may not properly safeguard classified information. The following will normally result in an unfavorable clearance action or administrative termination of further processing for clearance eligibility:(a) Refusal to undergo or cooperate with required security processing, including medical and psychological testing; or(b) Refusal to complete required security forms, releases, or provide full, frank and truthful answers to lawful questions of investigators, security officials or other official representatives in connection with a personnel security or trustworthiness determination.16. Conditions that could raise a security concern and may be disqualifying also include:(a) Reliable, unfavorable information provided by associates, employers, coworkers, neighbors, and other acquaintances;(b) The deliberate omission, concealment, or falsification of relevant and material facts from any personnel security questionnaire, personal history statement, or similar form used to conduct investigations, determine employment qualifications, award benefits or status, determine security clearance eligibility or trustworthiness, or award fiduciary responsibilities;(c) Deliberately providing false or misleading information concerning relevant and material matters to an investigator, security official, competent medical authority, or other official representative in connection with a personnel security or trustworthiness determination.(d) Personal conduct or concealment of information that may increase an individual's vulnerability to coercion, exploitation, or duress, such as engaging in activities which, if known, may affect the person's personal, professional, or community standing or render the person susceptible to blackmail;(e) A pattern of dishonesty or rule violations, including violation of any written or recorded agreement made between the individual and the agency;(f) Association with persons involved in criminal activity.17. Conditions that could mitigate security concerns include:(a) The information was unsubstantiated or not pertinent to a determination of judgment, trustworthiness, or reliability;(b) The falsification was an isolated incident, was not recent, and the individual has subsequently provided correct information voluntarily;(c) The individual made prompt, good-faith efforts to correct the falsification before being confronted with the facts;(d) Omission of material facts was caused or significantly contributed to by improper or inadequate advice of authorized personnel, and the previously omitted information was promptly and fully provided;(e) The individual has taken positive steps to significantly reduce or eliminate vulnerability to coercion, exploitation, or duress;(f) A refusal to cooperate was based on advice from legal counsel or other officials that the individual was not required to comply with security processing requirements and, upon being made aware of the requirement, fully and truthfully provided the requested information;(g) Association with persons involved in criminal activities has ceased.
18. The Concern. An individual who is financially overextended is at risk of having to engage in illegal acts to generate funds. Unexplained affluence is often linked to proceeds from financially profitable criminal acts.19. Conditions that could raise a security concern and may be disqualifying include:(a) A history of not meeting financial obligations;(b) Deceptive or illegal financial practices such as embezzlement, employee theft, check fraud, income tax evasion, expense account fraud, filing deceptive loan statements, and other intentional financial breaches of trust;(c) Inability or unwillingness to satisfy debts;(d) Unexplained affluence;(e) Financial problems that are linked to gambling, drug abuse, alcoholism, or other issues of security concern.20. Conditions that could mitigate security concerns include:(a) The behavior was not recent;(b) It was an isolated incident;(c) The conditions that resulted in the behavior were largely beyond the person's control (e.g., loss of employment, a business downturn, unexpected medical emergency, or a death, divorce or separation);(d) The person has received or is receiving counseling for the problem and there are clear indications that the problem is being resolved or is under control;(e) The affluence resulted from a legal source; and(f) The individual initiated a good-faith effort to repay overdue creditors or otherwise resolve debts.
21. The Concern. Excessive alcohol consumption often leads to the exercise of questionable judgment, unreliability, failure to control impulses, and increases the risk of unauthorized disclosure of classified information due to carelessness.22. Conditions that could raise a security concern and may be disqualifying include:(a) Alcohol-related incidents away from work, such as driving while under the influence, fighting, child or spouse abuse, or other criminal incidents related to alcohol use;(b) Alcohol-related incidents at work, such as reporting for work or duty in an intoxicated or impaired condition, or drinking on the job;(c) Diagnosis by a credentialed medical professional (e.g., physician, clinical psychologist, or psychiatrist) of alcohol abuse or alcohol dependence;(d) Evaluation of alcohol abuse or alcohol dependence by a licensed clinical social worker who is a staff member of a recognized alcohol treatment program;(e) Habitual or binge consumption of alcohol to the point of impaired judgment;(f) Consumption of alcohol, subsequent to a diagnosis of alcoholism by a credentialed medical professional and following completion of an alcohol rehabilitation program.23. Conditions that could mitigate security concerns include:(a) The alcohol related incidents do not indicate a pattern;(b) The problem occurred a number of years ago and there is no indication of a recent problem;(c) Positive changes in behavior supportive of sobriety;(d) Following diagnosis of alcohol abuse or alcohol dependence, the individual has successfully completed inpatient or outpatient rehabilitation along with aftercare requirements, participated frequently in meetings of Alcoholics Anonymous or a similar organization, has abstained from alcohol for a period of at least 12 months, and received a favorable prognosis by a credentialed medical professional or a licensed clinical social worker who is a staff member of a recognized alcohol treatment program.
24. The Concern.(a) Improper or illegal involvement with drugs raises questions regarding an individual's willingness or ability to protect classified information. Drug abuse or dependence may impair social or occupational functioning, increasing the risk of an unauthorized disclosure of classified information.(b) Drugs are defined as mood and behavior altering substances and include: (1) Drugs, materials, and other chemical compounds identified and listed in the Controlled Substances Act of 1970, as amended (e.g., marijuana or cannabis, depressants, narcotics, stimulants, and hallucinogens), and (2) inhalants and other similar substances.(c) Drug abuse is the illegal use of a drug or use of a legal drug in a manner that deviates from approved medical direction.25. Conditions that could raise a security concern and may be disqualifying include:(a) Any drug abuse (see above definition);(b) Illegal drug possession, including cultivation, processing, manufacture, purchase, sale, or distribution;(c) Diagnosis by a credentialed medical professional (e.g., physician, clinical psychologist, or psychiatrist) of drug abuse or drug dependence;(d) Evaluation of drug abuse or drug dependence by a licensed clinical social worker who is a staff member of a recognized drug treatment program;(e) Failure to successfully complete a drug treatment program prescribed by a credentialed medical professional. Recent drug involvement, especially following the granting of a security clearance, or an expressed intent not to discontinue use, will almost invariably result in an unfavorable determination.26. Conditions that could mitigate security concerns include:(a) The drug involvement was not recent;(b) The drug involvement was an isolated or aberrational event;(c) A demonstrated intent not to abuse any drugs in the future;(d) Satisfactory completion of a prescribed drug treatment program, including rehabilitation and aftercare requirements, without recurrence of abuse, and a favorable prognosis by a credentialed medical professional.
27. The Concern. Emotional, mental, and personality disorders can cause a significant defect in an individual's psychological, social and occupational functioning. These disorders are of security concern because they may indicate a defect in judgment, reliability, or stability. A credentialed mental health professional (e.g., clinical psychologist or psychiatrist), employed by, acceptable to or approved by the government, should be utilized in evaluating potentially disqualifying and mitigating information fully and properly, and particularly for consultation with the individual's mental health care provider.28. Conditions that could raise a security concern and may be disqualifying include:(a) An opinion by a credentialed mental health professional that the individual has a condition or treatment that may indicate a defect in judgment, reliability, or stability;(b) Information that suggests that an individual has failed to follow appropriate medical advice relating to treatment of a condition, e.g., failure to take prescribed medication;(c) A pattern of high-risk, irresponsible, aggressive, anti-social or emotionally unstable behavior;(d) Information that suggests that the individual's current behavior indicates a defect in his or her judgment or reliability.29. Conditions that could mitigate security clearance concerns include:(a) There is no indication of a current problem;(b) Recent opinion by a credentialed mental health professional that an individual's previous emotional, mental, or personality disorder is cured, under control or in remission and has a low probability of recurrence or exacerbation;(c) The past emotional instability was a temporary condition (e.g., one caused by a death, illness, or marital breakup), the situation has been resolved, and the individual is no longer emotionally unstable.
30. The Concern. A history or pattern of criminal activity creates a doubt about a person's judgment, reliability and trustworthiness.31. Conditions that could raise a security concern and may be disqualifying include:(a) Allegations or admissions of criminal conduct, regardless of whether the person was formally charged;(b) A single serious crime or multiple lesser offenses.32. Conditions that could mitigate security concerns include:(a) The criminal behavior was not recent;(b) The crime was an isolated incident;(c) The person was pressured or coerced into committing the act and those pressures are no longer present in that person's life;(d) The person did not voluntarily commit the act and/or the factors leading to the violation are not likely to recur;(e) Acquittal;(f) There is clear evidence of successful rehabilitation.
33. The Concern. Noncompliance with security regulations raises doubt about an individual's trustworthiness, willingness, and ability to safeguard classified information.34. Conditions that could raise a security concern and may be disqualifying include:(a) Unauthorized disclosure of classified information;(b) Violations that are deliberate or multiple or due to negligence.35. Conditions that could mitigate security concerns include actions that:(a) Were inadvertent;(b) Were isolated or infrequent;(c) Were due to improper or inadequate training;(d) Demonstrate a positive attitude towards the discharge of security responsibilities.
36. The Concern. Involvement in certain types of outside employment or activities is of security concern if it poses a conflict with an individual's security responsibilities and could create an increased risk of unauthorized disclosure of classified information.37. Conditions that could raise a security concern and may be disqualifying include any service, whether compensated, volunteer, or employment with:(a) A foreign country;(b) Any foreign national;(c) A representative of any foreign interest;(d) Any foreign, domestic, or international organization or person engaged in analysis, discussion, or publication of material on intelligence, defense, foreign affairs, or protected technology.38. Conditions that could mitigate security concerns include:(a) Evaluation of the outside employment or activity indicates that it does not pose a conflict with an individual's security responsibilities;(b) The individual terminates employment or discontinues the activity upon being notified that it is in conflict with his or her security responsibilities.
39. The Concern. Noncompliance with rules, procedures, guidelines, or regulations pertaining to information technology systems may raise security concerns about an individual's trustworthiness, willingness, and ability to properly protect classified systems, networks, and information. Information Technology Systems include all related equipment used for the communication, transmission, processing, manipulation, and storage of classified or sensitive information.40. Conditions that could raise a security concern and may be disqualifying include:(a) Illegal or unauthorized entry into any information technology system;(b) Illegal or unauthorized modification destruction, manipulation or denial of access to information residing on an information technology system;(c) Removal (or use) of hardware, software, or media from any information technology system without authorization, when specifically prohibited by rules, procedures, guidelines or regulations;(d) Introduction of hardware, software, or media into any information technology system without authorization, when specifically prohibited by rules, procedures, guidelines or regulations.41. Conditions that could mitigate security concerns include:(a) The misuse was not recent or significant;(b) The conduct was unintentional or inadvertent;(c) The introduction or removal of media was authorized;(d) The misuse was an isolated event;(e) The misuse was followed by a prompt, good faith effort to correct the situation.