Security clearances only apply to positions that fall under the purview of the federal government. Under the purview doesn't mean that you are employed directl

Security clearances only apply to positions that fall under the purview of the federal government. Under the purview doesn't mean that you are employed directly by the US Government. Again, from the example, Snowden had a clearance from his previous employment. Yeah, it had to get transferred but he didn't have to get re-cleared all over again.