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Teamsters To Push For Better Wages, Pension Benefits In Studio Negotiations Soon
The Hollywood sign is seen as it is repainted in preparation for its 100th anniversary in 2023.
(
Robyn Beck
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AFP via Getty Images
)
Topline:
Teamsters Local 399, which represents approximately 6,500 people who work in Hollywood as drivers, animal wranglers and other trades, will begin negotiations on pension and health benefits next week with the AMPTP, which represents the studios.
Why it matters: After 2023’s dual strikes by SAG-AFTRA and WGA West, another work stoppage would have a deleterious impact on Los Angeles and the people who directly and indirectly rely on the entertainment industry for their livelihoods.
For the first time since 1988, the Teamsters and other Hollywood Basic Crafts are bargaining the pension and health benefits part of their contract together with IATSE, the latter of which represents more than 150,000 entertainment workers — approximately 60,000 of whom are affected by the contracts about to be renegotiated.
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What the Teamsters want: Lindsay Dougherty, Local 399’s boss as well as the Teamsters motion picture director, is seeking better wages and working conditions for her members. Dougherty, who garnered some local renown with her fiery solidarity last year in support of the writers and actors on strike, is currently adopting a more diplomatic stance entering negotiations. At the same time, she’s clear that her workers need a living wage in Southern California and that she expects streaming residuals to help fund her members’ health and pension benefits.
This story is published in partnership with The Ankler, a paid subscription publication about the entertainment industry.
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But the game has changed: Congress voted to eliminate funding for public media across the country. Here at LAist that means a loss of $1.7 million in our budget every year. We want to assure you that despite growing threats to free press and free speech, LAist will remain a voice you know and trust. Speaking frankly, the amount of reader support we receive will help determine how strong of a newsroom we are going forward to cover the important news in our community.
We’re asking you to stand up for independent reporting that will not be silenced. With more individuals like you supporting this public service, we can continue to provide essential coverage for Southern Californians that you can’t find anywhere else. Become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission.
Thank you for your generous support and belief in the value of independent news.
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