SAG-AFTRA Announces New Contract Terms Following Actors’ Strike
After a grueling 118-day strike, the Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) has finally revealed the detailed terms of the new contract. Responding to pressure from its members, the performers union released a comprehensive 128-page document that includes crucial agreements and provisions. The contract secures an impressive funding of over $1 billion for compensation and benefit plans, with $317.2 million specifically allocated to benefit plans.
One of the key highlights of the agreement is the establishment of AI guardrails to protect actors in the face of evolving technology. This move ensures that actors’ rights are safeguarded in an increasingly tech-driven industry. Furthermore, the contract aims to achieve hair and makeup equity, addressing longstanding disparities in these areas. Background coverage will also see an increase, catering to the needs of actors in varied roles.
Moreover, the new contract ensures that actors receive fair compensation for their work in the streaming domain. It includes a provision for outsized streaming residuals, acknowledging the growing influence of this platform. Additionally, a new streaming success fund has been introduced, providing actors with an additional revenue stream on subscription video-on-demand (SVOD) platforms.
Union president Fran Drescher has emphasized the significance of this new revenue stream for members in the increasingly popular streaming industry. She also reiterated the importance of AI protections to shield actors from potential exploitation. The release of the detailed contract comes after the actors strike ended on November 8, following the successful negotiation of a new three-year contract with the studios.
The tentative agreement was approved by SAG’s national board, garnering an overwhelming 86 percent of votes. As of November 14, voting on the contract ratification has commenced, with members having until December 5 to cast their ballots. This crucial voting process will determine the final acceptance and implementation of the new contract terms.
With these comprehensive and groundbreaking provisions, SAG-AFTRA is aiming to secure better rights, benefits, and working conditions for its members. The release of the detailed contract marks the beginning of a new era for actors, empowering them in the face of industry changes and ensuring a fair and prosperous future in the entertainment landscape.
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