Who is responsible for classifying material under SAP?

The responsibility for classifying material under Special Access Programs (SAP) falls to the Original Classification Authority (OCA). The OCA is an individual specifically authorized to classify information in the interest of national security. This authority is crucial as it ensures that sensitive information is appropriately protected by determining the level of classification required based on the potential impact of unauthorized disclosure.

The OCA utilizes established guidelines and criteria to evaluate information and decide whether it should be classified as confidential, secret, or top secret, depending on the sensitivity and necessity for protection. Additionally, the OCA has the authority to downgrade or declassify information when it is no longer deemed sensitive.

While other roles, such as the Program Manager, Designated Security Officers, and Senior Management Executives, may contribute to the protection of classified material and help implement policies or practices, they do not have the formal authority to classify information. Their responsibilities might include overseeing security measures, ensuring compliance with security protocols, and managing program execution, but the classification authority specifically resides with the OCA. This distinction highlights the structured and regulated approach to safeguarding national security information.