Writers Guild of America Approves Bargaining Agenda Ahead of Negotiations

The Writers Guild of America (WGA) has approved a bargaining agenda with overwhelming support from its members, with 97.4% voting in favor. This decision comes just days before negotiations with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP) are set to begin on March 16, 2026. The agenda focuses on critical issues such as health care, compensation, and the impact of artificial intelligence on the industry.

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The WGA's health fund is currently facing significant financial challenges, having reported eight-figure losses totaling $205 million over the past four years. The union has warned that without changes, the fund could deplete its resources within three years. The bargaining agenda calls for increased employer contributions to both the pension and health funds, alongside adjustments to compensation caps that determine these contributions.

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The WGA's pattern of demands outlines several key objectives, including:

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• Increased contributions to health and pension plans.

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• Higher minimum compensation rates across all areas.

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• Enhanced residuals for content reused on streaming platforms.

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• Strengthened protections against unpaid work, often referred to as "free work."

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• Expanded protections related to artificial intelligence.

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While the agenda does not specifically address minimum staffing levels for television shows, it does touch on related issues, such as compensation for writers involved in post-production.

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In a memo to its members, the WGA emphasized that the pattern of demands is a necessary step in the bargaining process, stating, “While the Pattern does not detail specific proposals that will be made during negotiations, it is designed to inform the memberships of our two Guilds of general objectives we will pursue.” The union also noted the importance of addressing the financial viability of the health fund amid rising health care costs and industry contraction.

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Despite the WGA's strong support for the bargaining agenda, the AMPTP has previously argued that Hollywood workers enjoy benefits that are more generous than those typically found in employer-based plans. This perspective may influence the negotiations, as the AMPTP seeks to balance the demands of the WGA with the financial realities of the studios.

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Negotiations between the WGA and AMPTP are set to begin on March 16, marking the first formal discussions since the nearly 150-day strike in 2023. The outcome of these negotiations will be closely watched, particularly as the WGA West staff continues to strike, which has already led to the cancellation of the annual Writers Guild Awards.

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• “As we prepare to negotiate a new MBA, WGA member approval of a Pattern of Demands is a constitutionally-required step in the bargaining process,” — Writers Guild of America

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• “While I respect the staff’s right to strike, I also believe that you deserve an uncomplicated celebration of your achievements. We would not ask you, your guests, talent, and crew to cross a picket line to attend.” — Michele Mulroney, WGA President

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