ADAMS Accession No: ML24241A060 Agency Response Dated July 31, 2024: NRC staff agrees with this recommendation. The NRC has modified the separation clearance process (NRC Form 270) as follows: • Modified the tasks within the separation clearance process to initiate the collection of IT equipment at the beginning of the process. This ensures that mail return kits are sent earlier in the process for remote employees and, hybrid or onsite employees must return all IT equipment prior to their separation interview with OCHCO. (Completed: Q3 FY 2024) • Modified the task for the Deskside Support Team to reclaim hardware up to 10 days before an employee’s departure date (for onsite employees). (Completed: Q3 FY 2024) To facilitate the earlier return of agency laptops (up to 10 days before departure), OCIO will develop direction and instructions, and communicate them to the staff, on using web-based access to NRC IT services (i.e., Azure Virtual Desktop and Microsoft Office 365), that do not require having an agency laptop, to enable employees to work during the 10 days before the departure date. (Target Completion Date: Q2 FY 2025) OIG Analysis: The OIG will close this recommendation after reviewing and confirming the evidence provided by NRC’s management regarding the development of instructions and communication with staff on how to use web-based access to NRC IT Services. This recommendation remains open and resolved.