Why Does Global Rule One & No Contract/No Work Matter to You?

As a member, you’re expected to abide by Global Rule One and No Contract/No Work. What does this mean to you? You agree never to work on non-union projects.

The SAG-AFTRA Merger Agreement specifically provides that the AFTRA No Contract/No Work Rule and SAG Global Rule One continue to apply (after merger) just as they always have. Furthermore, contrary to popular belief, Global Rule One and the No Contract/No Work Rule are substantially the same.

Let’s say you get a non-union commercial and get X amount of compensation. What’s missing? It’s a reduced rate, you don’t get paid more even if they run it forever. There’s no pension and health contribution, and you’ll perform in less-than-union-standard working conditions.

SAG-AFTRA members who work non-union are weakening the strength of the entire organization. If producers can get professional actors at a “discount,” why would they sign up to pay union rates?

So, not only do you settle for reduced pay and nonexistent benefits, but you end up having less union work available.

This also makes fellow SAG-AFTRA members feel pressure to work as scabs too. “If so-and-so does it, why can’t you?” You might hear this from producers, fellow actors, maybe even your agent (who should really know better).

The problem is it becomes a vicious circle. As more actors work non-union, producers are less willing to use union contracts. This weakens the bargaining power of the union. Can you imagine what wages and working conditions would be without the might of the union behind members?

What Can You do to Help?

The most obvious answer is to only work union projects. But there are other things you can do to make SAG-AFTRA and its contracts even more powerful.

Flip it: If someone wants you to work a non-union project, insist they look into getting a union contract. Have them contact Julie Crane to get started.

Encourage fellow performers to follow your example. If all professional performers only worked union contracts, producers would be forced to pay union wages and benefits.

Get involved. The SAG-AFTRA Colorado Local is looking for volunteers to serve on some of our important committees. It is the work of our committees that brings strength to this local. You are encouraged to join with your fellow SAG-AFTRA members on a committee that matches your interests:

- Agency Relations
- Conservatory
- Diversity
- Government Affairs and Public Policy (GAPP)
- Organizing/Events
- SAG-AFTRA/AEA Relations

If you have an interest in any of the above committees or know someone who would be willing to lend us a hand, please contact Julie Crane via email or call (720) 932-8193.

Take Care of Yourself, Too

When working union projects, make sure they’re legitimate. We had more than one group nearly duped this past year by producers who told them that the project was SAG, when in fact the production never completed the paperwork. Even though you’re trying to do the right thing, you could still be penalized for violating Global Rule One and No Contract/No Work.

When you are called to work, make sure you get a SAG or AFTRA employment contract before the end of your first day. You also want to make sure you complete the sign-in sheets every day you work. Staff can’t help you with claims if there’s no proof you ever worked!

If you haven’t been paid on time, let us know. Don’t wait until the production has wrapped and left town. We can often get problems straightened out without a lengthy claim process.

Being a professional means just that — being professional. It will help your union, your local industry and most importantly, your career.