NJ-SPJ is part of the national Society of Professional Journalists, which regularly maintains and updates a Code of Ethics.
The SPJ Code of Ethics is a statement of abiding principles supported by additional explanations and position papers that address changing journalistic practices. It is not a set of rules, rather a guide that encourages all who engage in journalism to take responsibility for the information they provide, regardless of medium. The code should be read as a whole; individual principles should not be taken out of context. It is not, nor can it be under the First Amendment, legally enforceable.
NJ-SPJ requires that all who apply for the NJ-SPJ Press Identification Card read the SPJ Code of Ethics. As stated, it is not a set of hard rules and we encourage news organizations that examine and develop their own ethical codes.
The NJ Press ID card is the property of NJ-SPJ. NJ-SPJ reserves the right to withdraw the NJ Press ID Card from anyone who commits a gross violation of the spirit of SPJ’s ethics. The card may also be withdrawn for violations of law, such as trespassing, or for any other reason as determined at the sole discretion of the board of NJ-SPJ. In such instances, individuals are required to return their card to NJ-SPJ. NJ-SPJ will refund the individual’s card payment in full and, if requested, their membership fee. NJ-SPJ will, however, keep the processing and shipping fee. NJ-SPJ reserves the right to make changes to its terms of membership and the NJ Press ID program at any time and without prior notice.
NJ-SPJ is not liable for any incidental, consequential, direct or indirect (including but not limited to damages for loss of revenue, business interruption, expenses and the like) arising from the use, misuse and/or inability to use the NJ Press ID Card or any determinations regarding the issuance or revocation of the NJ Press ID Card.
You agree to indemnify, defend and hold harmless NJ-SPJ, its officers, employees, directors, agents and contractors from and against all claims, losses, expenses, damages and costs, including reasonable attorneys’ fees, arising from any violation of this Agreement by you or any other person using/displaying the NJ Press Id card as well as any determinations regarding the issuance or revocation of the NJ Press ID Card.