My boss reported me to my security officer stating he was concerned about my mental health. There’s a lot of history (not mental health-related) regarding a toxic work environment, so I had kept it quiet that I planned to leave as soon as I got a job offer elsewhere. No actual mental health issues except stress. Now my account is disabled. HR informed me that my access to all classified programs has been removed, which means I can’t do my job. She said I still have clearance. I asked for documentation and any steps I need to take to resolve this situation. I received none. I asked her and my boss for my security officer’s contact information but neither responded. I asked how long this was going to last…no response. I have no way to access my emails, messages, even the company directory, so I can’t reach out to those who would know. I have not received any paperwork or been contacted by anyone regarding security clearance. All I know is I still have my clearance but can no longer access anything related to classified programs…or anything else. I’m still getting paid, but I don’t know what my rights are here. Does this sound like suspension? Even if I keep my clearance, I will be dismissed for being unable to do my job.
This appears to be the company taking actions based on insider threat concerns, and has nothing to do with your clearance status. You will have to figure out a way to communicate with the HR representatives to ascertain your status.
Thank you. I spoke with HR just now, and she did confirm that my clearance was suspended pending investigation of the mental health concern reported. She said she was not sure about the clearance suspension process, but until DCSA makes a decision I can’t work. HR said they don’t know anyone in security compliance or how to find that out. I would rather speak with my officer before my clearance is revoked and have a chance to submit an explanation and documentation.
From my recent experience, agencies and departments have been going straight to “denied” instead of “suspended”. It kinda dumb given that “denied” denotes that it’s a new clearance or adjudication. In my case an many, it’s for jobs one has already been working on for years sometimes.
Thanks for your thoughts about insider threat; that never crossed my mind because frankly someone could offer me billions of dollars and I wouldn’t say more that I manage projects. I take this very seriously as it should be. I ended up calling a clearance lawyer and two hours later, I had my FSO contact information and email access again. I’m baffled but moving forward.
It’s the same at my company. I’ve never heard of indefinite extended “suspension” with pay here; violations almost always go straight to revoked. Rather, “suspended” for an hour while the issue is verified.
In a case like this, can a company decide on its own to revoke/suspend access? I thought they’d have to report to the customer who would make the determination.
And if the company can make such a move, do they have to inform the customer?