As part of the deal, the minimum wage would increase for television writers by 5% this year, with a 4% increase in 2024, and a 3.5% increase in 2025. Writers would also get residuals based on a tier system that would pay writers based on the length of the program. That would begin for any projects that air after the new year.
The deal also includes stipulations for the use of artificial intelligence, one of the more hotly-contested issues at the negotiating table. Writers can choose to use AI if they want, but cannot be forced by their company to use AIAnd"Guild reserves right to assert that exploitation of writers’ material to train AI is prohibited by MBA or other law."
News of the agreement was hailed by local leaders and even President Joe Biden, who applauded both sides for reaching a tentative deal "that will allow writers to return to the important work of telling the stories of our nation, our world -- and of all of us." "This agreement, including assurances related to artificial intelligence, did not come easily," Biden said in a statement. "But its formation is a testament to the power of collective bargaining. There simply is no substitute for employers and employees coming together to negotiate in good faith toward an agreement that makes a business stronger and secures the pay, benefits, and dignity that workers deserve.