The national board of the SAG-AFTRA performers union has taken a significant step forward by approving a tentative agreement with leading game companies. In a recent announcement on its website, the union has encouraged its members to cast a positive vote for the new contract, with ratification scheduled for June 18th.
Key Highlights of the Agreement
This new contract promises to enhance compensation for performers, featuring an impressive increase of 15.17%. Additionally, members can look forward to annual raises of 3% from November 2025 through 2027. The agreement also addresses health and retirement contributions, which will rise from 16.5% to 17%, and further increase to 17.5% by October 2026.
In a move that underscores the union’s commitment to safeguarding its members, the contract introduces robust protections against exploitation related to artificial intelligence. Performers will now have control over the use of their digital likenesses, as consent will be required for any AI applications. Furthermore, these digital replicas must be withdrawn from use during any strike actions.
The union has also secured essential safety provisions, ensuring that a qualified medical professional is either present or readily available during rehearsals and performances that involve hazardous actions or conditions. In a bid to prioritize performer welfare, rest periods are now mandated for on-camera principal performers. Notably, employers are prohibited from requesting that performers undertake stunts or other risky activities during virtual auditions.
Earlier this week, SAG-AFTRA announced the achievement of this tentative agreement with prominent gaming firms, leading to the suspension of strike action on June 11th. This development marks a pivotal moment for performers in the gaming industry, promising a more secure and equitable working environment.
