L.A. Local Board Meets via Videoconference for January 2023 Board Meeting

The second virtual Los Angeles Local Board meeting with observers was held on Jan. 17. Administrative, committee and event updates were given for the upcoming months.

The L.A. Local Board received reports, including: 

L.A. Local President’s Report

Local President Jodi Long welcomed Local Board members and gave an update regarding the SAG-AFTRA Self-Tape Committee and upcoming general membership meeting. Long welcomed Second Vice President David Jolliffe to share an update on TV/Theatrical negotiations, set to begin in June 2023.

In preparation for negotiations, 16 wages and working conditions meetings were scheduled, in addition to three meetings that discussed prioritizing the proposals. Those W&W meetings involved members in all performer categories and provided the membership with an opportunity to voice their concerns. 

L.A. Local Executive Director’s Report 

L.A. Local Executive Director Serena Kung provided administrative updates, including changes to staffing, and reminded board members about the L.A. Local office reopening Jan. 30. Kung also spoke about the on-air talent at KVEA/Telemundo who voted overwhelmingly to unionize, providing a huge victory in the industry.

Additional updates were provided for past virtual events, including the What’s New in Casting: A Panel Webinar With Casting Directors webinar, the conservatory mini-intensive and member orientations, which will now take place monthly to help the L.A. Local membership learn more about SAG-AFTRA. 

Committee Reports

Eleven of the L.A. Local  committees gave reports on their work of engaging, informing and educating membership, and keeping performers safe on sets. Highlights included the creation of a new L.A. Local Performers With Disabilities Committee, the introduction of the new Fitting Room Best Practices guide, the commencement of instructor vetting and curriculum planning for the SAG-AFTRA L.A. Local Conservatory, and updates on the L.A. Local Government Affairs & Public Policy Committee’s efforts to help pass Proposition 28, which increases arts and education funding in the state of California.