SPJ Members Approved Code of Ethics Revisions

The Society of Professional Journalists voted to update its ethics code to address artificial intelligence.

Updated on Oct. 5, 2026 in Artificial Intelligence

Isometric editorial illustration featuring a brass gear next to a geometric crystal, representing the integration of journalistic standards and digital technology. — The Society of Professional Journalists approved revisions to its Code of Ethics, incorporating new standards for artificial intelligence use and source transparency in digital reporting. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Should professional journalism organizations update their ethics codes to address artificial intelligence?

Members of the Society of Professional Journalists have approved sweeping revisions to their Code of Ethics. The new framework includes specific guidance on artificial intelligence, source transparency, and the mitigation of misinformation.

Why it matters

These updates are designed to help journalists maintain credibility while navigating a rapidly evolving media landscape. The code serves as a vital, voluntary benchmark for professionals facing complex technological challenges.

The revision process incorporated feedback from a survey of over 700 individuals. A specialized 16-member committee of journalists, educators, and scholars led the effort to modernize these standards.

The players

Society of Professional Journalists

This is a professional organization dedicated to promoting high standards of ethical behavior and protecting the First Amendment rights of journalists.

The details

The Society of Professional Journalists board endorsed the changes following a lengthy review process that began in late 2025. In addition to the ethics code, members passed a bylaws change that grants the board formal authority to establish conduct standards for organizational events.

The revision process for the Code of Ethics began in October 2025.
The proposed revisions report was released on August 10, 2026.
The SPJ board of directors officially endorsed the proposed changes on September 25, 2026.
Members voted to approve the revisions in October 2026.

The Tech Race

This move signals a broader shift in how media institutions are formally adjusting to the disruption caused by generative AI tools. These guidelines update a legacy framework to keep pace with the rapidly evolving technological arms race in digital content creation.

Readers can expect greater transparency from journalists who adopt these updated standards in their reporting. The code helps users distinguish between verified information and AI-generated content by prioritizing clear disclosure practices.

The takeaway

The adoption of these revisions reflects a proactive approach by journalists to maintain integrity in an era of automated information. Professionals should utilize this updated voluntary framework to strengthen trust with their audiences.