Summary
A 51-year-old federal contractor was denied a security clearance under Guideline H (Drug Involvement) due to unresolved concerns regarding her marijuana use. The Statement of Reasons alleged that the applicant used Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) from approximately June 1983 to at least February 2024, and that she intends to continue using marijuana in the future. These allegations raised disqualifying conditions under Adjudicative Guideline paragraphs 25(a) and 25(g).
The denial was based on the applicant's admission of ongoing marijuana use, which remains illegal under federal law, and her expressed intent to continue this use despite acknowledging its federal prohibition. The applicant failed to provide evidence of rehabilitation or a commitment to abstain from drug use.
Consequently, the Adjudicator concluded that the applicant had not sufficiently mitigated the security risks associated with her drug involvement, and that granting a security clearance would not be consistent with national security interests. The clearance was therefore DENIED.
Why the Applicant Was Denied
- The applicant admitted to ongoing marijuana use, which is illegal under federal law.
- The applicant expressed intent to continue using marijuana despite acknowledging its prohibition under federal law.
- The applicant did not provide evidence of rehabilitation or a commitment to abstain from drug use.
Conditions Referenced
- AG ¶ 25(a)raisedSubstance Misuse
- AG ¶ 25(g)raisedIntent to Continue Drug Involvement
Key Rule Quoted
“Any doubt concerning personnel being considered for national security eligibility will be resolved in favor of the national security.”
Procedural Posture
- SOR issuedMar 18, 2024
- Answer filedApr 13, 2024
- Hearing heldJun 18, 2024via video teleconference
- Decision dateSep 13, 2024
Cite For
- Denial of Security Clearance Due to Ongoing Drug Involvement Under Guideline H
- Impact of Federal Law on State-sanctioned Drug Use
- Failure to Demonstrate Rehabilitation or Commitment to Abstain From Drug Use