Society of Professional Journalists Revises Century-Old Code to Address AI and New Types of Journalists

# What changed and why Journalists (SPJ) has prepared a revised Code of Ethics to reflect rapid changes in technology and the media workforce. The draft is 967 words, 73 longer than the existing code, and is the organization's first major update since 2014.

# What stays the same

# What's new in the draft The draft adds concrete guidance on tools and verification without naming AI directly. A key new line reads that speed, technology, or medium do not excuse inaccuracy or unfairness, making the journalist responsible for work regardless of the tools used. The language refers broadly to tools and technologies so it can remain applicable as methods evolve.

Other additions expand guidance on verification, misinformation, crime reporting, fabricated images, and accountability when ownership or funding may influence editorial decisions. The draft also explicitly extends the code's reach to independents and creator-journalists, recognizing that roughly one-third of journalists were freelance or self-employed in recent years.

# How the revision process unfolded SPJ's Ethics Committee spent about a year on the process, using virtual meetings and a June session in Indianapolis where committee members debated wording at length. Committee chair Dan Axelrod emphasized the stakes, saying the code helps protect democracy and society by setting standards for journalism. Vice chair Chris Roberts described the meetings as intense and focused on precise wording.

The draft reflects compromise and careful phrasing: it does not single out AI by name but addresses ethical responsibilities tied to technology use. One debated addition urges journalists to be vigilant and courageous in holding those with power accountable and to counter unfair marginalization of less powerful people.

# Next steps The draft is in a public feedback period and will be presented to SPJ members for a vote in October. If approved, it will become the organization's current voluntary guide for ethical behavior across traditional newsrooms, freelance journalists, and emerging creator-led outlets.

# Practical implications for journalists and newsrooms

• Apply the same accuracy and fairness standards whether publishing for a legacy outlet, an independent platform, or social media.
• Expect clearer guidance on reporting sensitive topics like crime, fabricated media, and conflicts of interest linked to new owners or funders.

# Why this matters SPJ frames the revision as a response to changing practices and public skepticism. The draft seeks to make the code usable for a broader set of people who call themselves journalists while reasserting that ethical responsibility sits with the individual or outlet, regardless of the production tools or business models involved.