SAG-AFTRA Members Approve 3-Year Contract with Studios in Recent Vote
In a recent vote, members of the Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) have approved a new three-year contract with major studios. The agreement, which covers film and television productions, is seen as a significant victory for the union and its members.
The contract negotiations between SAG-AFTRA and the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP) had been ongoing for several months. The previous contract had expired on June 30, 2020, but negotiations were delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, after months of discussions, both parties were able to reach an agreement that was ultimately ratified by the union’s members.
One of the key provisions of the new contract is an increase in wages for actors. Under the agreement, SAG-AFTRA members will receive a 2.5% wage increase in the first year, followed by a 3% increase in the second and third years. This wage increase is expected to provide actors with a fair share of the revenue generated by film and television productions.
Additionally, the new contract includes improvements in residuals, which are payments made to actors for the reuse of their work. Residuals play a crucial role in providing ongoing income for actors, especially in the age of streaming platforms where content can be accessed repeatedly. The agreement ensures that actors will receive increased residuals for high-budget streaming productions, reflecting the changing landscape of the entertainment industry.
Furthermore, the contract addresses issues related to diversity and inclusion in the industry. It establishes a task force that will focus on increasing opportunities for underrepresented groups, including people of color, women, and individuals with disabilities. This provision is a significant step forward in promoting equality and representation within the entertainment industry.
The new contract also includes provisions for improved workplace safety and protections for actors. It establishes guidelines for intimacy coordinators on set, ensuring that actors are comfortable and safe during scenes involving nudity or simulated sex. This provision reflects the industry’s commitment to creating a safe and respectful working environment for all its members.
The approval of this contract by SAG-AFTRA members is a significant achievement for the union and its members. It demonstrates the power of collective bargaining and the importance of standing together to negotiate fair wages, improved working conditions, and increased opportunities for all actors. The contract sets a precedent for future negotiations and serves as a reminder that unity and solidarity can lead to positive change in the entertainment industry.
Overall, the new three-year contract between SAG-AFTRA and major studios represents a significant win for actors. It provides them with increased wages, improved residuals, and better workplace protections. Moreover, it addresses issues of diversity and inclusion, ensuring that underrepresented groups have equal opportunities in the industry. This agreement sets a positive precedent for the future of labor relations in the entertainment industry and highlights the importance of collective bargaining in achieving fair treatment for all workers.
