Hollywood's Tentative Agreement: IATSE Members Weigh Pros and Cons Amid Industry Challenges
As Hollywood faces production cuts, IATSE members are scrutinizing a new tentative deal with studios, which promises significant wage increases, AI regulation, and enhanced safety provisions. The agreement, still pending a ratification vote, comes at a critical time for the industry and its workforce.
Three years ago, West Coast IATSE crewmembers narrowly rejected a Basic Agreement contract in a popular vote, with 50.4 percent voting against it due to concerns over working conditions. Despite this, the pact was approved through a delegate vote, avoiding a strike. The crewmembers have been working under this agreement since, though many were dissatisfied with the 2021 ratification process.
The industry is now watching closely as IATSE members evaluate the new Basic Agreement reached on June 25. While the detailed contract has yet to be released, members have received a summary and are attending review meetings ahead of the ratification vote scheduled between July 14 and 17. It's unclear if IATSE will again use the delegate voting system this year.
Opinions on the deal are varied, but the impact of 2023's double strike and subsequent production slowdown in Los Angeles is evident. “Everyone I'm talking to is basically like, ‘I'm signing this thing because we're all getting crushed, I don't really have a choice financially,'” said an artist from the Art Directors Guild (IATSE Local 800), who wished to remain anonymous. “I'll definitely be voting yes. I want this thing over with.”
A major highlight of the agreement is the wage increase, totaling 14.5 percent over three years, compared to 9 percent in previous agreements. According to Diego Mariscal, a dolly grip from IATSE Local 80, this translates to a significant hourly increase, making the deal a “step in the right direction.” The agreement also introduces new streaming residuals and extends funding for the union's health and pension plans.
To combat long working hours, the agreement stipulates triple time pay after 15 hours and double time after 12 hours. Safety concerns are prominent among union members, especially following the death of crewmember Rico Priem after consecutive long shifts. Local 80 grip Nina Moskol supports the hefty penalties for shifts exceeding 15 hours, seeing it as a step towards safer working conditions.
However, some members feel the safety measures don't go far enough. Greg Loebell, a lighting technician from Local 728 and member of the Caucus of Rank-and-File Entertainment Workers (CREW), advocates for more stringent provisions, such as triple time after 12 hours and mandatory hotel accommodations after late shifts. Despite financial pressures, he plans to vote no, emphasizing the need for stronger safety measures.
The deal also addresses the impact of artificial intelligence on jobs in the film and television industry. It includes provisions requiring employers to negotiate with the union on AI-related impacts, prohibits mandatory AI prompt contributions from union members, and proposes the formation of an AI training committee.
Editor and CREW member Thomas Moore is disappointed with the AI provisions, fearing job losses due to AI. Despite his concerns, he predicts the deal will pass due to the substantial wage increases and the desire to return to work.
The overall sentiment at recent town hall meetings has been positive. Moskol believes that ratifying the deal could lead to more stability and job opportunities in the L.A. area. “I think they're solid wins [in the contract] and I know that everybody would really just like to get back to work,” she says. “This is part of the stepping stone to get back to work.”
As the ratification vote approaches, IATSE members must weigh the benefits and shortcomings of the tentative agreement, balancing immediate financial needs against long-term safety and job security concerns.
