Bice, Turner, Slotkin introduce the Security Clearance Portability for Departing Servicemembers Act

Washington, D.C.- Representative Stephanie Bice (R-OK) introduced the Security Clearance Portability for Departing Servicemembers Act with Representative Mike Turner (R-OH) and Representative Elissa Slotkin (D-MI). This legislation aims to expand employment opportunities for departing servicemembers to transition into civilian national security contractor positions by making it easier to transfer Department of Defense (DoD) security clearances. Specifically, the bill would require DoD to treat previously held security clearances as active for the purposes of future employment for one year after a servicemember leaves military service. Beyond that one-year window, the bill would facilitate rapid reactivation (less than 180 days) up to the third year after separation from the military. The bill includes safeguards to prevent clearance reactivation for those who separate under other than honorable conditions, and for those who have a pending investigation for potentially disqualifying behavior. This policy would equally apply for departing DoD civilians. 

“American businesses of all sizes are still facing workforce shortages, and that certainly includes defense and intelligence contractors," Rep. Bice said. "My legislation, the Security Clearance Portability for Departing Servicemembers Act, seeks to allow those departing military service to transition smoothly and effectively into the private sector. At a time when we are seeing increased military aggression from our adversaries, we must take every step to maintain our military advantage and preparedness. This commonsense legislation will streamline the clearance process while also assisting those transitioning from active duty service.”

“The Security Clearance Portability for Departing Servicemembers Act will improve the transition for men and women in uniform from a position within the Department of Defense to supporting our national security in the private sector while cutting down costly delays on national security related projects," Rep. Turner said.