NOTE: In our last newsletter that IATSE members had voted to authorize a strike that would halt television and film production in the United States. We have an update…
With Hollywood potentially on hold, the IATSE (International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees) has reached an agreement with AMPTP (Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers).
The strike would have halted television and film production across the country. IATSE was prepared to strike for better wages for their workers, longer breaks, improved safety, as well as scheduled meal breaks.
The agreement involves a new film and television contract covering the next three years. The IATSE was in power striking the deal, and has been persistently pushing towards this goal. Though the members of IATSE are receiving improvements to their current schedules, the entertainment companies are still able to work through their productions with no interruptions.
What is the Deal on the New Contract?
The basic agreements of the contract are in the works but it includes changes such as improved wages, better working conditions, 10 hour turn around times in between shifts, and pension plan improvements.
The contract eliminates the so-called “Fraturday” scheduling issue where production shifts start late on Friday evening and end early Saturday morning. This type of scheduling made for a six-day work week. The new contract creates a 54-hour weekend and makes allowances for a 32-hour turnaround time if a six-day production schedule is required.
Wages will be increased 3% and the lowest paid workers will also receive “living wage”. All these improvements are what the IATSE members were searching for, yet some parts of the new contract have not been disclosed. Pension and health plan issues will be addressed at a later date.
There are parts that were not immediately disclosed as well as some parts that the IATSE is still unhappy with. Some parts that were not involved in the contract right away were the pension and health plan.
The Basic Agreement Contract and the Area Standards Agreement
There are separate agreements and contracts for Hollywood industry employees who are involved in the Basic Agreement, as well as members of the 23 other locals across the United States who are involved in the Area Standards Agreement.
By clicking here, you can view the Basic Agreement which has three parts that include streaming improvements, working conditions, and economic improvements.
Contracts and agreements that involve the IATSE and AMPTP involve more than 60,000 entertainment industry workers.. Union leaders credit the solidarity and relentlessness of the entertainment workers for brining about the new contract.
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