LOS ANGELES (CNS) - SAG-AFTRA has approved an agreement to cover content created by certain types of influencers when they are paid to advertise products or services, bringing the union in line with the burgeoning social media marketing movement.
“Making it easier to cover this type of work has been a top priority for our organization. I want to commend the efforts of our staff in creating an agreement that will benefit SAG-AFTRA's current members as well as allowing all creators an opportunity to join the union,'' said Gabrielle Carteris, president of the Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists.
“As new ways of storytelling emerge, it's imperative that we embrace and lift up these artists.''
Union officials said further details on the new agreement will be forthcoming.
Saturday's meeting also included the passing of a resolution preemptively denying any potential re-admission applications by former member Donald Trump. The former president of the resigned his membership Thursday in a tersely worded letter. The union's board was moving to possibly expel him over allegations of endangering the lives of broadcast journalists and inciting the insurrection at the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6.
The board also presented longtime employee and senior executive John McGuire with the SAG-AFTRA President's Award, which is given for meritorious service, dedication and commitment to the membership. McGuire is retiring after 52 years of service.
“There are no words to express the respect and depth of appreciation we feel for John McGuire,'' SAG-AFTRA National Executive Director David White said. “After more than 50 years of exceptional stewardship and service to our members, employees, the entertainment industry and the labor movement, we can scarcely imagine SAG-AFTRA without him. He will be greatly missed.''
In other action, the board: -- approved a finance committee recommendation to hold initiation fees at their current rates and to suspend an automatic annual increase of 2% in base dues. -- approved a recommendation to extend the lease of the union's headquarters at 5757 Wilshire Blvd. to October 2032. -- presented reports showing that the fiscal year 2021 actuals have performed better than planned.
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