New York Scenic Artists and Designers Ratify New Industry Agreement

New York, October 17 -United Scenic Artists, Local USA 829, of the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees, Moving Picture Technicians, Artists and Allied Crafts and the major Studios announced today the ratification of a new three year agreement covering the Union's 3,800 members. The new contract, which was unanimously ratified by the voting members, includes 2 percent annual wage increases and increases in health contributions. The contract will run through September 30, 2015 and applies to Scenic Artists and Designers, Art Directors, Costume Designers, Shoppersons, Art Department Coordinators, and their respective Assistants working in feature film and television production in the City of New York, Nassau County and the Meadowlands area of New Jersey.

On behalf of the Union, National Business Agent, Cecilia Friederichs, stated: "The members of the Local are happy with the new agreement as in addition to wage increases, it includes increased health benefit contributions, which were our priority going into the negotiation."

On behalf of the major Studios, the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers said: "The new agreement with IATSE Local USA 829 is good news for the New York region because it will maintain industry stability at a time when production is booming and employment is near an all-time high. Ratification of this agreement also ensures that members will immediately benefit from the increases in wages and health care contributions that were negotiated with the Union."