SAG-AFTRA’s national board has recommended a new contract with major studios to its members for a vote. The board approved this deal after negotiations wrapped up earlier this month, but they haven’t shared the exact vote details.
One key aspect of the agreement is about merging the SAG-Producers Pension Plan with the AFTRA Retirement Fund. This will come with a 1% increase in the contribution rate starting January 1, 2028. The contract also includes stronger protections around artificial intelligence (AI), particularly focusing on consent and pay.
This agreement builds on previous guidelines concerning AI, adding new protections and regulations.
The actors’ union reached this new deal just a week into revived talks. Negotiations initially began on February 9, but the parties paused to support the Writers Guild of America (WGA) during its discussions. Although sources indicated both sides were close, some issues—especially regarding AI—remained unresolved until recently.
Interestingly, SAG-AFTRA received a significant pension fund contribution from the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP), similar to what the WGA secured in its recent contract negotiations, which also included support for a struggling healthcare plan. Both agreements feature measures to help protect jobs and wages in light of advancing technology.
As for the full details of this contract, SAG-AFTRA plans to release them after member ratification. Meanwhile, the Directors Guild of America (DGA) is gearing up for its own negotiations with the AMPTP, with talks starting on May 11.
In today’s rapidly changing entertainment landscape, these contracts highlight a growing emphasis on fair compensation and worker rights. Members of the industry are increasingly vocal about AI’s impact on their jobs, sparking lively discussions on social media and among fans. As the sector evolves, the importance of safeguarding artists’ rights becomes even more evident.
For more on labor negotiations in media, you can check The Hollywood Reporter’s coverage.
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