Why is there a security clearance backlog?
The history is fairly long and complicated. However, certain specific events give a clear understanding of how the security clearance investigation process has evolved, and the difficulties the US government has faced. In general, four types of problems have caused the security clearance backlog to stay maintained at large numbers. • Increase in the Federal government’s need for new security cleared personnel and not enough staff to conduct the personnel investigations and periodic reinvestigations. • Inadequate resources and personnel for Defense Security Service • Frequent changes in leadership positions at Defense Security Service • Problems shifting responsibility from Defense Security Service to Office of Personnel Management For the most recent report presented to the White House on the Security Clearance backlog, click here.
