ATTACHMENT 1-Definitions.doc

ATTACHMENT 1

Definitions Appeal. A request by the subject of a BI to have an initial determination reviewed. An appeal is appropriate when the subject believes records or facts cited in the initial notification are erroneous or incomplete or to refute the final determination. Documents that prove the initial notification was based on erroneous information are to be submitted by the subject when appealing an initial notification.

Security Clearance. Status granted to individuals allowing them access to classified information. A clearance by itself is normally not sufficient to gain access; the organization must determine that the cleared individual has a "need to know". No one is supposed to be granted access to classified information solely because of rank, position, or a security clearance.

Decisional. A term used by TSA’s contract Adjudicators to identify investigations that must be reviewed and adjudicated by a TSA Adjudicator because the derogatory information or issues reported in an investigation are serious and sufficient information exists from which to base a final determination.

Entry-On-Duty (EOD) Suitability Determination. (Although only Federal employees “enter-on-duty” with the government, the term as used for this definition refers only to the process that the determination is based upon.) A determination of a contractor’s suitability to enter-on-duty and commence providing services to TSA pursuant to a classified contract. It is based upon a review of the SF 85P and upon the results of a background check consisting of a criminal history records check and credit check.

Extension. A request from the subject of a BI to receive an extension in the time allowed for appealing an initial notification.

Final Notification. A notification to the subject of a BI that the subject does not meet TSA’s suitability and/or security standards.

Initial Notification. A notification to the subject of a BI that the subject does not meet TSA’s suitability and/or security standards. The notification informs the subject of the basis for the determination and provides instructions for appeals.

Recommend Disapproval. A term used by TSA’s contract Adjudicators to identify investigations that meet, or appear to meet TSA’s criteria for unsuitability. These cases must be reviewed and adjudicated by a Federal TSA Adjudicator.

Reconsideration Request. A request made by a terminated employee for TSA to reconsider the unfavorable adjudication (ineligibility) which was based upon TSA’s suitability and/or security standards. This is similar to an appeal in that documents that prove the determination was based on erroneous information are to be submitted by the subject when requesting reconsideration. A reconsideration request may also include letters of recommendation written by the terminated employee’s supervisor(s) and/or colleagues on his or her behalf.

Suitability. Fitness for employment referring to identifiable character traits and past conduct that is sufficient to determine whether or not an individual is likely to carry out the duties of the position with efficiency, effectiveness, and in the best interests of the agency.