It's costing New Jersey taxpayers millions to pay public employees to conduct union business.

The State Commission of Investigation has released a report that calls for eliminating or substantially curtailing paid union leave for government workers.

The SCI says some union officials in New Jersey have been on paid leave for decades without performing any government work. Investigators say some received additional compensation in the form or attendance stipends or overtime at taxpayer expense.

The commission found government-paid leave cost more than $30 million in salaries and health benefits from 2006 through 2011. The SCI examined 120 school districts, 17 towns, all 21 counties and 12 government departments.

The watchdog agency found little oversight or consistent policies covering paid leave for union officials.