Summary
A 22-year-old applicant, employed by a DOD contractor, was denied a security clearance under Guideline H (Drug Involvement) due to unresolved concerns regarding marijuana use. The Statement of Reasons detailed that the applicant used marijuana with varying frequency from approximately September 2021 through at least January 2025, including while in a sensitive position from March 2024 through at least January 2025. Additionally, the applicant purchased marijuana from at least April 2024 through about November 2024 and tested positive for marijuana in a February 2024 pre-employment urinalysis.
The denial was based on the applicant's admitted regular marijuana use from September 2021 to February 2025, which included use while in a sensitive position. A positive drug test in February 2024 further supported these concerns. Crucially, the applicant expressed an intent to continue using marijuana in the future until specifically instructed not to.
Ultimately, the decision concluded that insufficient evidence was presented to demonstrate the applicant's rehabilitation or a firm commitment to a drug-free lifestyle, leading to the denial of the security clearance.
Why the Applicant Was Denied
- The applicant admitted to regular marijuana use from September 2021 to February 2025, including while in a sensitive position.
- He tested positive for marijuana on a pre-employment drug screening in February 2024.
- The applicant expressed an intent to continue using marijuana in the future until instructed otherwise.
- Insufficient evidence was presented to demonstrate rehabilitation or a commitment to a drug-free lifestyle.
Conditions Referenced
- AG ¶ 25(a)appliedAny Substance Misuse
- AG ¶ 25(b)appliedTesting Positive for an Illegal Drug
- AG ¶ 25(f)appliedAny Illegal Drug Use While Granted Access to Classified Information or Holding a Sensitive Position
- AG ¶ 25(g)appliedExpressed Intent to Continue Drug Involvement and Substance Misuse
Key Rule Quoted
“The illegal use of controlled substances . . . can raise questions about an individual’s reliability and trustworthiness, both because such behavior may lead to physical or psychological impairment and because it raises questions about a person’s ability or willingness to comply with laws, rules, and regulations.”
Procedural Posture
- SOR issuedJan 28, 2025
- Answer filedJan 30, 2025Applicant elected a decision on the written record.
- Hearing heldJul 24, 2025Decision issued.
- Decision dateJul 24, 2025
Cite For
- Denial of Security Clearance Due to Unresolved Drug Involvement Under Guideline H
- Insufficient Evidence of Rehabilitation for Drug Use
- Impact of Federal Law on State-legal Marijuana Use in Security Clearance Determinations