Sunlight Policy Center says NJEA president violated conflict of interest policy

The Sunlight Policy Center has released a research report alleging that New Jersey Education Association (NJEA) President Sean Spiller violated the union's conflict of interest policy. The report claims Spiller used $40 million in teachers' dues to support his gubernatorial campaign.

According to an editorial by NJ.com, Spiller has been repeatedly involved in conflict of interest controversies and has not yet clarified how union funds are being utilized for his campaign. The editorial referenced previous incidents during Spiller’s time in Montclair and criticized the lack of transparency regarding his political funding. It called for full disclosure on the use of member dues by the NJEA.

In a TikTok video shared by Sunlight Policy Center, Spiller publicly admitted that teachers' regular dues are financing his campaign activities, describing it as "advocacy." This statement contrasts with earlier NJEA communications that suggested political contributions were solely from voluntary Political Action Committee (PAC) contributions. The video is one of the first public acknowledgments linking union dues directly to his campaign.

According to MyPayMySay, New Jersey teachers can pay over $1,200 annually in union dues, which are automatically deducted from their paychecks. These dues support various union activities, including political advocacy unless teachers choose to opt out entirely. Unlike NJEA PAC contributions, regular dues are mandatory, providing members limited control over their political use.

Mike Lilley, founder of Sunlight Policy Center and former leader of Better Education for New Jersey Kids, has consistently focused on the influence of public-sector unions in state politics. He has authored several investigations into NJEA finances, including reports on PAC operations and internal governance. Sunlight’s mission is said as ensuring union transparency and protecting member interests.