Tentative AFTRA Agreement

AFTRA Reaches Tentative Agreement with Major Networks and Producers on Network TV Code

LOS ANGELES (March 9, 2008) – The American Federation of Television and Radio Artists--the national labor union of 70,000 actors, singers and recording artists, dancers, announcers, and other broadcast talent--has reached a tentative agreement with the four major television networks and producers on the Network Television Code, which is subject to AFTRA National Board approval and ratification from members.

"This agreement is a major milestone for AFTRA as substantial gains in wages and working conditions for performers were successfully achieved," said Roberta Reardon, AFTRA President and Chair of the Negotiating Committee. "This contract is extraordinary for performers and made significant progress on many fronts, including importantly new media jurisdiction and compensation."

The new agreement contains solid increases in wage rates for all categories, increased contributions for the AFTRA Health and Retirement plan, and addresses discrete issues affecting every category of performer. In addition, the agreement preserves significant principles which are a hallmark of AFTRA contracts--such as universal coverage of background performers and contract security for daytime serial contract players.

Read the entire press release here.