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Summary

A 22-year-old U.S. citizen was granted a security clearance despite concerns under Guideline B (Foreign Influence). The Statement of Reasons noted that the applicant's parents work for a Christian-based human rights organization and are currently assigned to Lebanon. This raised disqualifying conditions related to foreign influence.

However, the judge found sufficient mitigating evidence. The applicant demonstrated proactive security consciousness by reporting a chance encounter with a foreign government official. Furthermore, the applicant's parents have established safeguards and emergency plans due to the nature of their work in Lebanon.

Crucially, the applicant also demonstrated strong and deepening ties to the United States. These mitigating factors collectively led to the decision to grant the security clearance.

Why the Applicant Prevailed

• The applicant demonstrated proactive security consciousness by reporting a chance encounter with a foreign government official.
• The applicant's parents have established safeguards and emergency plans due to their work in Lebanon.
• The applicant has strong and deepening ties to the United States.

Conditions Referenced

Key Rule Quoted

“A person is not automatically disqualified from holding a security clearance because they have relatives living in a foreign country.”

Procedural Posture

• SOR issuedMay 30, 2017
• Answer filed—
• Hearing heldMar 8, 2018rescheduled from February 22, 2018
• Decision dateJul 20, 2018

Cite For

• Mitigation of Foreign Influence Concerns Under Guideline B
• Importance of Proactive Reporting of Foreign Contacts
• Consideration of Strong U.S. Ties in Security Clearance Decisions