The Defense Office of Hearings and Appeals isn’t going anywhere despite recent policy updates and memos stirring confusion. DOHA remains fully operational, continuing to handle security clearance denials and revocations for contractors.
Recent announcements, including the November 27 Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency memo, clarify new processes for service members and civilians. Under this update, DCSA will oversee the initial adjudicative review after issuing a Statement of Reasons (SOR) or Letter of Intent (LOI) to deny a clearance. This provides applicants a chance to respond with mitigating information directly to an adjudicator before a formal denial or revocation.
Here’s the breakdown:
- For Contractors: DOHA will continue handling appeals and hearings. No changes to their process.
- For Service Members and Civilians: DCSA adds a new step, allowing for due process before denial or revocation. If denied, appeals still proceed through DOHA.
Contractors, take note: DOHA remains active and unchanged, focusing on contractor cases. Recent announcements don’t change that process, and merely change the placement of an initial due process review for service members and civilians. DCSA has noted it is already beginning the new procedure this month.
