From the beginning of the pandemic, SAG-AFTRA’s top priorities have been to keep members safe and keep them working. As the pandemic stretches into its second year, the way the situation has played out has been anything but predictable.
New COVID cases are increasing in all 50 states, but that doesn’t tell the whole story, as those afflicted and those dying from the disease are overwhelmingly people who have not been vaccinated. In addition, the prevalence of the virus varies by region, so circumstances may be different depending on where you live and work.
That’s why 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 Pictures and Television Producers to update our return-to-work safety protocols. On Monday, we reached an agreement. Relying on facts and data, and guided by science, the agreement extends the protocols until Sept. 30 and makes modifications on workplace practices, taking into account regional transmission rates and employee vaccination status. We encourage you to read the full agreement here, the summary here and FAQs here.
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 us back to work last September. This updated agreement will continue to keep members safe at work. The unions will continue to monitor developments and consider how to proceed when the agreement expires.
Strength in unity,
Gabrielle Carteris
President
Duncan Crabtree-Ireland
National Executive Director
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