What is the potential impact of security clearance lapse?

When a security clearance lapses, the most significant impact is that it may limit an individual's ability to perform their job functions, particularly if those functions require access to classified information. Many positions in government and defense sectors depend on the holder having an active security clearance to handle and disseminate sensitive data. Without a current clearance, an individual may find themselves restricted from participating in projects or accessing information essential for their job role, leading to decreased effectiveness in their position.

This limitation affects not only the individual's work capabilities but also the operational efficiency of the organization, as it may hinder progress on important tasks that involve classified materials. Being unable to fulfill required job functions can also lead to concerns regarding potential non-compliance with federal regulations governing the handling of classified information.

The other options are less relevant to the actual consequences of a clearance lapse. An improvement in promotion chances is unlikely, and there is typically a significant impact on job performance. While automatic termination can occur in some cases, it is not a guaranteed outcome and depends on various factors, making the point about limitations in job function the most accurate reflection of the real-world implications of security clearance lapses.