IATSE Deal Has A 50/50 Chance of Ratification

 

Homage to 'Rust' shooting

The negotiations between IATSE union leadership and the studios and streamers ended with an agreement that averted a nationwide strike. However, the agreement is not supported by many members as they say the deal struck did not go far enough to restore work-life balance and long hours on set.

The contract will go to a ratification vote sometime in the next few weeks. Member will vote electronically. The deal must win a majority of delegates from the 13 IATSE locals. It is not entirely clear what would happen if the membership rejects the agreement - my guess, the negotiations would go back to square one. 

One development that may impede the ratification is the recent deadly shooting on the set of 'Rust'. Supposedly, the crew on 'Rust' had been working long and stressful days in order to keep costs down on the low-budget, independent film, starring Alex Baldwin.

IATSE members are saying that the fatal shooting is an example of the dangerous working conditions that need to be eliminated. They say the game has changed with this accident and it is no longer business as usual.

CMG believes the negotiated deal has a 50/50 chance of ratification. Many union members are upset and feel their leadership sold them out. The Baldwin shooting incident adds fuel to the fire.