AI protections included in new Hollywood worker’s contracts

The International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) has reached a tentative three-year agreement with major Hollywood studios, including Disney and Netflix. The deal promises significant pay hikes and protections against the misuse of AI, addressing key concerns of the workforce.

Under the terms of the agreement, IATSE members, such as lighting technicians and costume designers, will receive pay raises of 7%, 4%, and 3.5% over the three-year period. These increases mark a substantial improvement in compensation for the crew members who are vital to film and television production.

A crucial element of the deal is the inclusion of language that prevents employees from being required to provide AI prompts if it could result in job displacement. The provision aims to safeguard jobs against the potential threats posed by AI technologies in the industry.

The new agreement comes on the heels of a similar labor deal reached in late 2023 between the SAG-AFTRA actors’ union and the studios. That contract, which ended a nearly six-month production halt, provided substantial pay raises, streaming bonuses, and AI protections, amounting to over $1 billion in benefits over three years.

Why does it matter?

The IATSE’s tentative agreement represents a significant step forward in securing fair wages and job protections for Hollywood’s behind-the-scenes workers, ensuring that the rapid advancements in technology do not come at the expense of human employment.