The Defense Department will take over all federal government security clearance background checks after President Trump signed an executive order for the action Wednesday, The Hill reported.
The order transfers responsibility for background checks to the Pentagon’s Office of Personnel Management and states that “needed reforms” require the transfer.
The order also calls for changing the name of the Defense Security Service – which oversees background checks – to the Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency.
“This executive order reflects the administration’s commitment to reform the personnel vetting enterprise to ensure a trusted federal workforce and achieve an efficient, effective and secure operation that meets all government-wide needs for background investigations,” a DOD statement said.
The full transfer of responsibility will take place by June 24.
Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Heather Johnson
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