SAG-AFTRA, the union representing actors and performers, has recently released the complete 128-page contract that brought an end to the 118-day-long actors’ strike. This strike, which became the union’s longest-ever widespread work stoppage, was the first since the days of the Jimmy Carter administration. Union leaders are now urging their members to vote in favor of the contract by the ratification deadline of December 5.
Negotiated by SAG-AFTRA president Fran Drescher and Duncan Crabtree-Ireland, the agreement has received widespread praise, being hailed as a groundbreaking deal. It promises numerous benefits and compensations that total over $1 billion, including additional funding for benefit plans. Notably, it also establishes detailed guardrails for generative artificial intelligence, a topic that has sparked a lively debate among union members.
While there are differing opinions regarding the inclusion of AI provisions in the contract, it is highly unlikely that the majority of SAG-AFTRA members will reject the deal. After enduring a lengthy strike and witnessing significant gains achieved through negotiations, members are expected to consider the broader picture and the sacrifices made during the strike.
The contract also secures various other gains for SAG-AFTRA members. These include measures to ensure hair and makeup equity, increased background coverage, and streaming residuals. The contract’s term, specified in the 2023 Memorandum of Agreement, will be effective from November 9, 2023, through June 30, 2026.
To cast their votes, SAG-AFTRA members have until 5 p.m. PT on December 5. They can choose to vote via postcard or online, making it convenient for all members to participate in this important decision that will shape their future as actors and performers.
As the deadline approaches, it remains to be seen whether the debate surrounding the inclusion of AI provisions will sway the majority of SAG-AFTRA members. Nevertheless, it is evident that the union’s efforts have yielded significant results and members will need to weigh the potential benefits against any reservations they may have.
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