Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/1401622
Back to Work Protocols Updated A s of press time, the number of new COVID cases is up in all 50 states, with the overwhelming majority of infections and deaths occurring among those who are not vaccinated. In addition, the prevalence of the virus varies by region, so circumstances may be different depending on where members live and work. To address the evolving situation, the union has been working with the Directors Guild of America, International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees, International Brotherhood of Teamsters and the Basic Crafts, together with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers to update the return-to-work safety protocols. Relying on facts and data, and guided by science, the organizations reached an agreement on July 19 to extend the protocols until Sept. 30 and make modifications on workplace practices, taking into account regional transmission rates and employee vaccination status. In addition to allowing for differing guidelines depending on production location, the revised agreement includes updates to testing and PPE requirements; rules for producers' mandatory vaccination policies; and travel and transportation requirements. It was the Return to Work Agreement — unprecedented coordination and solidarity between the unions and collaboration with employers — that safely got members back to work last September. This updated agreement will continue to keep members safer at work. The unions will monitor developments and consider how to proceed when the agreement expires. Read the full agreement and FAQs at sagaftra.org/returntowork. Contract Negotiations Update U nion solidarity is what gives SAG-AFTRA its power at the negotiating table, and your voice matters when it comes to shaping the contracts under which you work. Be sure the union has your email address so that you can always stay up to date. Here is the status of some of the union's major contracts: News & Broadcast Contracts Negotiations taking place or upcoming: • ABC owned-and- operated contracts (L.A., N.Y., Chicago, San Francisco and Fresno). • CBS Network News. • NBC owned-and- operated stations. • NPR. • Telemundo N.Y. • First contracts at MPR music stations, WGBO, WAMU, KDKA producers and KIRO producers. Sound Recordings Negotiations are currently in process. Network Code Negotiations are scheduled to begin in late September. Commercials The wages and working conditions process will be held toward the end of the year. That's the chance for those who work this contract to weigh in on which provisions are most important to them. Negotiations are scheduled for early 2022.