Encyclopedia of Radio 3-Volume Set

AFTRA is party to about 400 collective bargaining agreements nationwide. These agreements generally regulate salaries and working conditions and include binding arbitration procedures for unresolved labor disputes. Union rules require AFTRA members to work only for “signatories” (employers who have signed AFTRA contracts), and members are asked to verify the signatory status of an employer before accepting a job. AFTRA was also the first industry union to establish employer-paid health insurance benefits and portable retirement plans. Any performer who has worked or plans to work in an area covered by AFTRA contracts is eligible for membership. Member dues are based on a performer's previous year's AFTRA earnings. Currently, dues and initiation ...