What can a security clearance lapse impede?

A security clearance lapse primarily impacts access to sensitive information. When an individual's clearance is lapsed, they are no longer authorized to handle, view, or interact with classified or sensitive information pertinent to their roles. This restriction is critical for maintaining national security and protecting sensitive data, as clearances are designed to ensure that only trustworthy individuals have access to this information.

Access to sensitive information is vital for many positions within government and defense agencies, as it allows employees to perform their duties effectively. If a clearance lapses, that access is revoked until the clearance is reestablished, hindering the individual's ability to perform tasks that require that level of access.

While a lapse could have potential implications in the other areas mentioned, such as applying for new positions or promotions, those scenarios depend more on other factors like the specific requirements of the roles or the agency's policies on hiring and verifying security clearance rather than directly impacting access to sensitive information.