Which is a key responsibility assigned to the Secretary of Defense under NDAA FY17?

The responsibility assigned to the Secretary of Defense under the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2017 (NDAA FY17) to develop an implementation plan for background investigations is significant in the context of national security and insider threat management. This responsibility reflects the emphasis placed on ensuring that personnel involved with sensitive information and government operations are thoroughly vetted to prevent insider threats. The NDAA FY17 specifically highlighted the need for a cohesive and robust approach to background investigations, particularly given the increasing risks associated with insider threats in military and defense environments.

By developing an implementation plan, the Secretary of Defense plays a pivotal role in standardizing the background investigation process, ensuring that it is comprehensive and effective at identifying potential risks. This step is essential because it not only safeguards sensitive information but also contributes to a culture of security and accountability within the Department of Defense.

The other options, while relevant to different aspects of organizational management, do not pertain specifically to the critical area of background investigations and insider threat management as defined by NDAA FY17.