Conflict of Interest Policy

Last updated September 26, 2026

Table of Contents

  1. Purpose
  2. Scope
  3. Definition of Conflict of Interest
  4. Disclosure Requirements
  5. Decision-Making and Voting Restrictions
  6. Documentation
  7. Annual Disclosure Statement
  8. Enforcement
  9. Commitment to Transparency

1. Purpose

The purpose of this Conflict of Interest Policy is to protect the integrity of JSO Transparency Project by ensuring that decisions are made in the best interest of the organization and its mission, rather than for personal, financial, political, or professional gain.

As an organization dedicated to public transparency and accountability, maintaining independence, credibility, and public trust is essential.

2. Scope

This policy applies to:
  • Board Members
  • Officers
  • Advisors
  • Volunteers
  • Contractors and individuals in decision-making roles
All individuals acting on behalf of the organization must comply with this policy.

3. Definition of Conflict of Interest

A conflict of interest occurs when a person's personal, financial, professional, political, or relational interests could influence, or appear to influence, their decisions on behalf of the organization.

Conflicts may include, but are not limited to:
  • Financial interests: Business ownership, paid services, compensation decisions, donations tied to conditions
  • Professional or political interests: Employment or leadership roles in related organizations
  • Relational interests: Family members, close friends, or partners
  • Personal interests: Any situation that could affect objectivity
Having a conflict of interest is not misconduct. Failure to disclose a conflict is.

4. Disclosure Requirements

All individuals covered by this policy must:
  • Disclose any actual or potential conflicts as soon as they arise
  • Disclose conflicts before participating in related discussions or decisions
  • Provide sufficient detail for the organization to understand the nature of the conflict
Disclosures may be made verbally and/or in writing and will be documented in official records.

5. Decision-Making and Voting Restrictions

When a conflict of interest exists:
  • The individual must not participate in discussion or voting on the matter
  • Leadership will determine how to proceed
  • The individual may be asked to step out of the discussion
  • The final decision will be documented
This ensures decisions are made objectively and transparently.

6. Documentation

All disclosed conflicts and related decisions will be recorded in:
  • Meeting minutes
  • Administrative Update Logs
  • Official organizational records
This creates a clear and accountable paper trail.

7. Annual Disclosure Statement

Board members and officers may be required to complete an annual Conflict of Interest Disclosure Form to:
  • Identify relevant affiliations
  • Report potential conflicts
  • Confirm understanding of this policy
This promotes consistency and transparency.

8. Enforcement

Failure to disclose conflicts may result in:
  • Removal from decision-making on the issue
  • Review by leadership
  • Additional action as determined by the organization
All actions will be documented.

9. Commitment to Transparency

JSO Transparency Project is committed to providing the public with accurate, unbiased, and evidence-based information.

This policy protects the organization's independence, integrity, and credibility.