Overview
- Friday reporting from AP, CBS and other outlets disclosed a June 16 internal memo that removes several blanket disqualifiers and directs case-by-case review of some past prostitution, juvenile bestiality and older thefts.
- Under the new thresholds, applicants remain automatically disqualified if they paid for sex within the last ten years, did so three or more times, or solicited while in a position of trust; bestiality committed before age 18 and employer theft older than three years may be evaluated rather than instantly barred.
- The FBI issued a statement saying criminal sexual acts remain disqualifying and that its background checks — including questionnaires, interviews, credit reviews, polygraphs and other steps — remain broad and rigorous.
- Former officials including ex-deputy director Andrew McCabe warned the change could raise risks of coercion or blackmail, and reporting notes the move follows heavy agent departures, with about 1,139 special agents leaving in 2025.
- The practical effect is uncertain because polygraph exams and deeper security reviews could still screen many candidates out, so observers will watch how vetting teams apply the guidance and whether hiring rates change.