Iatse Agreement 2020

The International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) recently reached a new agreement with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP) that will affect the working conditions and pay rates of the entertainment industry’s behind-the-scenes workers for the next three years.

The tentative agreement, which was announced on July 31, 2020, covers workers in a variety of fields, including stagehands, electricians, prop makers, makeup artists, and more, who work in film and television production across the United States. The contract was negotiated amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, which has put many productions on hold or forced them to adopt new safety protocols.

The new agreement includes several key provisions that aim to improve the working conditions and pay rates for IATSE members. For example, it includes wage increases of 2.5% in the first year, and 3% in the second and third years, as well as increased contributions to health and pension plans. The agreement also includes provisions for better working conditions, including mandatory rest periods and meal breaks, and improved safety protocols in the wake of the pandemic.

Additionally, the agreement addresses concerns about the changing nature of the entertainment industry, particularly with regards to streaming services like Netflix and Amazon Prime. Under the new contract, workers on shows produced for streaming platforms will be paid the same rates as those working on traditional television shows and films.

The agreement was met with mixed reactions from IATSE members. Some praised the wage increases and improved working conditions as important steps towards recognizing the contributions of behind-the-scenes workers, while others criticized the lack of progress on issues like rest periods and overtime pay.

Overall, the new IATSE agreement for 2020 represents an important step forward for the entertainment industry’s behind-the-scenes workers, as it addresses issues related to wages, working conditions, and safety in the face of an unprecedented pandemic. As the industry continues to evolve and adapt to new challenges, it will be important for workers and employers alike to continue to work together to ensure fair and equitable treatment for all.