Despite the pandemic, SAG-AFTRA member earnings hit a record high in 2021, even when adjusted for inflation, the union said on Saturday after its national board meeting. Union’s made-for-new media, animation, sound recording and audiobook contracts all set inflation-adjusted records.
“The growth and growth in the number of jobs and overall earnings reflect the effectiveness of our return to work protocols and the essential nature of our members’ contributions to the success of the media and entertainment industry,” said SAG-AFTRA’s National Executive Director. Duncan Crabtree-Ireland. “We are mindful that many of our members have not fully looked back on their work opportunities and we continue to focus on getting everyone back to work.”
No decision was taken regarding anyone in the board meeting possible disciplinary action against Will Smith for slapping Chris Rock at the Oscars, although a source says changes to the union’s disciplinary process were discussed so that if multiple members make allegations against someone, those charges are will be brought against only one member, thus eliminating the need for multiple proceedings on the same issue.
President Fran Drescher, who joined the virtual meeting from Washington, D.C., where she was attending the White House Correspondents’ Dinner, praised the union’s negotiating team for reaching an agreement for a new commercials contract, called Now awaits ratification by the members. He also updated the board on meetings in Washington to advance legislation on several bills important to union members, including the American Music Fairness Act, the Performing Artists Tax Equality Act and the Crown Act.
Noting that the association celebrated the 10th anniversary of the merger of SAG and AFTRA on 30 March 2012, Drescher told the board that “we are moving towards unity. I feel the energy and during this auspicious 10th anniversary”. I am proud to be your leader. We are about to set a new direction, and I see only positivity.” He also reaffirmed his commitment to working with people across the industry to implement eco-friendly practices.
In their financial report, Secretary-Treasurer Jolie Fischer and Chief Financial Officer Ariana Ozanto pointed out that SAG-FTRA is “in a strong financial position,” with revenue and expense tracking “better than planned through the third quarter of fiscal year 2022.” And the union said in a statement, “has increased significantly.”
Fisher reported that the union’s $10 million Payroll Protection Plan loan had been forgiven, and the union is seeing “an unprecedented growth in new membership, representing confidence in the union and new income,” the union said. He also announced the formation of a real estate investment subcommittee, which will explore possible options for acquiring real estate in the Los Angeles area. With this the union can buy a new headquarters.
The board also approved the budget for fiscal year 2023, which includes “significant investments in new technology, business innovation projects and growing staff.” The union said.
Christine Dubois, CEO of AFTRA Retirement Fund, explained that the AFTRA Retirement Fund – which is separate and distinct from the SAG pension plan – is in the so-called green zone and is “projected to be there and performing well.”