Animation Guild Secures New Deal with Studios: What’s Enhanced and What’s Not

After months of back-and-forth negotiations, the Animation Guild members have voted in favor of a new three-year deal with studios. What’s interesting is that this contract wasn’t as popular as the last one, with only 76. 1% of members voting in support compared to the previous deal’s 87%. The new agreement, set for 2024-2027, includes some wins like wage increases and AI protections, but it also has some missing pieces. The wage hike is pretty decent, with a 7% increase in the first year, 4% in the second, and 3. 5% in the third. Health and pension funds also got a boost, and there are some nice additions like bereavement leave and extra sick days. Plus, Juneteenth is now recognized as a holiday, and there are craft-specific gains for writers and storyboard artists. One big win that’s a bit out of the ordinary is the push for gender-neutral restrooms and free menstrual products. The guild made it clear that they want studios to provide these amenities. But not everyone is happy. Some high-profile members, like Mike Rianda from The Mitchells vs. The Machines, had concerns about the AI provisions. They feel there’s more work to be done to protect jobs from AI. Steve Kaplan, the guild’s business rep, agrees that there’s more to do. He says the guild will keep fighting for better AI protections through lobbying and other efforts. The AMPTP said they’re glad the deal passed and that it includes historic gains for wages and protections. Key Points to Ponder: - Is the new deal as good as the last one for all members? - How will the AI provisions play out in the long run? - What other improvements could the guild strive for in future deals?