In late 2019, the Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) negotiated a new television agreement with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP). This new agreement covers the period from July 1, 2019, to June 30, 2022.
The agreement includes several key provisions that are important for both actors and production companies. One of the most significant changes is an increase in wages for performers. The minimum wage for actors has been raised to $1,030 per day, while background actors will now receive a minimum of $180 per day.
Another important change is the creation of a new residuals formula. Residuals are payments that actors receive when their work is reused or sold for additional distribution, such as in syndication or on streaming platforms. Under the new formula, residuals will be based on a percentage of a show`s revenue, rather than a fixed rate per rerun. This is intended to provide more compensation for actors as streaming becomes an increasingly popular method of distribution.
The agreement also includes provisions for increased funding for the SAG-AFTRA Health Plan and SAG-AFTRA Pension Plan, which provide health and retirement benefits to union members. This was a major priority for the union, as many actors struggle to obtain affordable health insurance.
The new agreement also addresses several issues related to workplace safety, including the establishment of a new hotline for reporting sexual harassment and the creation of guidelines to address harassment and discrimination on set.
Overall, the new SAG-AFTRA television agreement is a significant step forward for actors and production companies alike. By increasing wages, creating a new residuals formula, and improving workplace safety, the agreement is intended to benefit all parties involved in the television industry.