SAG-AFTRA National Board Meets via Videoconference

The SAG-AFTRA National Board met Saturday in a scheduled one-day videoconference plenary.

Executive Vice President Ben Whitehair called the meeting to order and opened with a remembrance of members who have passed away since the last National Board meeting. 

National Executive Director Duncan Crabtree-Ireland told the board that covered earnings and employment overall reached a new record high in 2021, even with inflation factored in. The made-for new media, animation, sound recordings and audiobook categories saw inflation-adjusted record highs. “The rebound and growth in number of jobs and overall earnings demonstrates 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,” he said. “We are mindful that many of our members have not seen their work opportunities fully return and we continue to focus on getting everyone back to work.”

In other business, the board approved the FY 2023 budget, reviewed administrative, finance and governance matters and received reports including: 
 
President’s Report

President Fran Drescher videoconferenced into the meeting from Washington, D.C., where she was attending the White House Correspondents Dinner and advocating for various union issues. She began by lauding the Commercials Contracts negotiating team that recently arrived at a tentative agreement with employers, which is now awaiting ratification by members.

Drescher informed the board about the meetings she was having in Washington to advance legislation on a number of bills important to union members, including the American Music Fairness Act, the Performing Artist Tax Parity Act, and the CROWN Act.

Calling out the 10th anniversary of the merger of SAG and AFTRA, which occurred on March 30, 2012, Drescher addressed the board, saying, “We are moving in the direction of unity. I feel the energy and I’m proud to be your leader during this auspicious 10th anniversary. We’re going to set a new trajectory, and I only see positivity ahead.” 

She also reaffirmed her commitment to working with people throughout the industry to implement more environmentally friendly practices.  

National Executive Director’s Report

Crabtree-Ireland also reported on the union’s operations and upcoming initiatives, including negotiations, contract and organizing gains, member engagement and legislative efforts. He provided details on the SAG-AFTRA Retiree Health Program, which is aiming to be implemented next year.  

Crabtree-Ireland took time at the end of his report to offer a special tribute to Kathy Connell, who is retiring after decades as the head of the SAG Awards and a member of the union’s executive leadership team. 

“She has done such an extraordinary job of shepherding this treasure of the union to be what it is today,” he said. “Kathy, on behalf of all of us … thank you for everything you have done. We really, really appreciate you.”
 
Finance Report 

Secretary-Treasurer Joely Fisher and Chief Financial Officer Arianna Ozzanto reported that SAG-AFTRA is in a strong financial position; both revenue and expenses are tracking better than planned through the third quarter of FY 2022, and reserves have grown significantly. 

Fisher reported that the union’s PPP loan was forgiven and the union is seeing an unprecedented surge in new membership, representing confidence in the union and new income. Fisher also announced the formation of the Real Estate Investment Subcommittee, which will explore potential options for acquiring real estate in the Los Angeles area. 

The fiscal year 2023 budget was approved; it includes significant investments in new technology, business innovation projects and increasing staff in order to continue providing member service at the necessary level. 

During the Finance Report, Crabtree-Ireland announced Ozzanto’s shortlist nomination for the Los Angeles Times’ CFO Leadership Awards. The distinction is given to executive leaders in acknowledgement of their most noteworthy accomplishments over a 24-month period.

AFTRA Retirement Fund Report

AFTRA Retirement Fund CEO Christine Dubois gave a confidential update, reporting that the fund is in the Green Zone, is projected to remain there and is performing well. 

Contracts Report

Crabtree-Ireland reported on the status of NetCode and Sound Recording Contracts negotiations. 

Legal and Governance Reports

Executive Vice President Ben Whitehair, General Counsel Jeffrey P. Bennett and Chief Governance and Equity & Inclusion Officer Michelle Bennett reported on various legal and governance matters. 

The meeting adjourned at 6:11 p.m. PT.