U.S. Nets & AFTRA Reach New Pact

LOS ANGELES: The American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (AFTRA) has reached an agreement with the four major U.S. broadcasters on a new network TV code deal, which covers all programming except scripted prime-time shows.

AFTRA members and ABC, CBS, NBC and FOX and other producers signed a three-year pact. The new agreement features 2-percent annual wage increases and a 1-percent increase in employer contributions to health and retirement.

There’s also an increase for the minimum workday for stand-ins who work on prime-time variety and award shows, which will increase the minimum daily rate by 20 percent to 67 percent.

Roberta Reardon, AFTRA’s national president, commented, “Our negotiating committee of rehearsal and background actors, promo announcers, freelance newspersons, stunt performers, singers, dancers and, of course, actors, worked together seamlessly to deliver an agreement that guarantees increases and improvements for all union members who work, or who will work, under this contract.”

Reardon continued, “I especially acknowledge the tremendous dedication and skill of Kim Roberts Hedgpeth and her terrific team of staff. AFTRA members are fortunate to be supported by such an amazing group of professionals.”