Can Union Dues Be Used for Political Purposes?
Teachers across the country contribute union dues to support their unions in collective bargaining, legal representation, and member benefits. However, a significant portion of these dues is often directed toward political activities, which could raise concerns for educators who disagree with the political agenda of their unions. Understanding how union dues are spent—and whether they align with union members’ interests—is critical for those considering whether to join or remain in a union.
The Janus v. AFSCME Supreme Court decision in 2018 changed the landscape for public employees by granting non-members the right to opt out of paying union fees for political activities. Despite this, teachers who are members of the National Education Association (NEA) and the American Federation of Teachers (AFT) still see a significant portion of their union dues used for political purposes, often without clear disclosure.
Political Spending by Unions
By law, labor unions are allowed to allocate dues toward a variety of political activities. This includes lobbying, advocacy, and contributions to political campaigns, often through Political Action Committees (PACs). However, public employees who do not wish to support these efforts have legal rights under the Janus decision. This ruling allows non-union members to avoid paying fees for union activities they do not support—including political spending.
In recent years, the NEA and AFT have increased spending on political activities, raising questions about transparency and prioritization. For example, the NEA allocated over $50 million towards politics and lobbying in 2023—more than it spent on representing its members. Similarly, the AFT spent nearly $47 million on political initiatives in the same period, with contributions to Democratic campaigns and PACS such as For Our Future and House Majority PAC.
Teacher’s Rights and Options
Many teachers may not realize how much of their dues are funneled into political endeavors because these expenditures are often categorized under vague labels like “contributions, gifts, and grants.” While unions claim these political efforts align with the broader interests of their members, the reality is that not all teachers share the same political views. This disconnect has contributed to a decline in union membership as some educators seek alternatives or choose to opt out
For public school teachers who disagree with their union’s political spending, there are alternatives to full union membership, thanks to the Janus ruling. Under this decision, non-members can opt out of contributing to the union’s political and lobbying activities while still benefiting from the union’s representational functions. This includes any activities directly related to labor negotiations, workplace protections, and legal representation, which unions are obligated to provide for all employees in unionized workplaces, regardless of membership status.
The bottom line
While unions often play a role in advocating for workers, members should be fully aware of how their dues are spent. Transparency and accountability are especially important as union spending increasingly shifts toward political activities, often without direct input from members. With millions of dollars directed toward political causes each year, understanding where your money goes can help you determine whether you want to continue supporting the union’s political efforts or explore alternatives that better align with your personal beliefs. Whether choosing to remain in the union or opt out, knowing your rights is key to making the best decision for you.