Episode 20 Summary – CFD Podcast: Adjudicative Guidelines Part G

In this episode, Tabetha Baume breaks down Guideline G: Alcohol Consumption, clarifying that drinking alcohol does not automatically disqualify someone from a security clearance. The concern is not social drinking, but problematic alcohol use that results in impaired judgment, legal issues, workplace incidents, or dependence.

Using real-world scenarios, she explains how adjudicators evaluate whether alcohol-related issues are isolated or part of a pattern, how much time has passed, and whether the individual has taken responsibility and demonstrated meaningful change. Single incidents like a DUI can often be mitigated, while repeated or recent problems face greater scrutiny.

Tabetha stresses the importance of honesty on the SF-86 and notes that proactively seeking treatment and documenting recovery are viewed favorably. The key takeaway is that alcohol issues can be mitigated when they are addressed responsibly, transparently, and with sustained improvement.