From the east coast to the west coast, union sets create economic stability for working people.

Last week in Los Angeles, an ultra-low budget feature called “EMT” was organized after the crew reported the non-union shoot. No strike occurred because the company realized these workers were willing to stand together and demand a contract. Representatives for the IATSE met with the company and after a few hours, the show was union. All benefits and working conditions (including weekend turnaround, stronger meal penalties, and an extra holiday) are retroactive to date of hire and a financial deposit is in place with the payroll company as protection for the crew.

Meanwhile, in Savannah, GA, members of the crew of “A Little Mermaid” refused to report to work without a contract in place. Organizers for Locals 491, 600 and the IATSE reached an agreement with the producers after 16 hours of negotiations. The deal resulted in wage increases, benefit contributions and a sizable strike settlement paid to both union and non-union workers that struck, standing up and fighting for a contract providing professional standards, safety rules, and employer-paid health and retirement contributions.