§ 159a.19 - Obtaining classification evaluations.

Procedures. If a person not authorized to classify originates or develops information that he or she believes should be safeguarded, he or she shall:

(a) Safeguard the information in the manner prescribed for the intended classification.

(b) Mark the information (or cover sheet) with the intended classification designation prescribed in § 159a.11;

(c) Transmit the information under appropriate safeguards to an appropriate classification authority for evaluation. The transmittal shall state that the information is tentatively marked to protect it in transit. If such authority is not readily identifiable, the information should be forwarded to a headquarters activity of a DoD Component, to the headquarters office having overall classification management responsibilities for a DoD Component, or to the DUSD(P). A determination whether to classify the information shall be made within 30 days of receipt;

(d) Upon decision by the classifying authority, the tentative marking shall be removed. If a classification is assigned, appropriate markings shall be applied; but

(e) In an emergency requiring immediate communication of the information, after taking the action prescribed by paragraphs (a) and (b) of this section transmit the information and then proceed in accordance with paragraph (c) of this section.