Who is not authorized to make national security eligibility determinations based upon a review of the PSI or adverse information referral?

• A. Secretary of Defense
• B. Adjudicative authorities
• C. DoD component heads
• D. Facility security officers

Answer: (D)

National security eligibility determinations are made by someone with formal adjudicative authority who reviews the information gathered in a personnel security investigation (PSI) and any adverse information referrals. Adjudicative authorities, or DoD component heads who designate such authorities, weigh the evidence and decide whether a person meets the eligibility standards. The facility security officer, while essential for administering security at a local level—handling access requests, safeguarding materials, and coordinating security processes—does not have the authority to render the final eligibility decision. That is why the facility security officer is not authorized to make national security eligibility determinations based on a PSI or adverse information referral.