SAG-AFTRA Secures Protections for Performers Against AI

SAG-AFTRA's Strike Against Video Game Companies: A Fight for AI Protections and Fair Compensation

SAG-AFTRA, the actors' and broadcasters' union, launched a strike against major video game companies on July 26th, 2024, highlighting concerns over the unchecked use of artificial intelligence (AI) and inadequate performer compensation. This action follows over a year of stalled negotiations.

The strike targets prominent companies including Activision, Electronic Arts, and others. The core issue is the potential for AI to replace human actors, replicating voices and likenesses without consent. SAG-AFTRA isn't against AI technology itself, but demands safeguards to prevent exploitation and ensure fair compensation for its members. The union also worries about AI's impact on smaller roles, crucial for emerging talent.

To address these concerns and offer interim solutions, SAG-AFTRA has developed new agreements. The Tiered-Budget Independent Interactive Media Agreement (I-IMA) caters to indie and lower-budget projects (budgets between $250,000 and $30 million), incorporating AI protections previously rejected by the video game industry. A side deal with Replica Studios allows union members to license digital voice replicas under specific terms, including an opt-out for perpetual use.

An Interim Interactive Media Agreement (and a similar Localization Agreement) provides temporary solutions covering various aspects including compensation, AI usage, rest periods, and payment terms. Crucially, these agreements exclude expansion packs and DLC, and projects approved under them are exempt from the strike.

Negotiations began in October 2022. A resounding 98.32% of SAG-AFTRA members voted to authorize a strike in September 2023. While progress was made on some issues, the lack of strong, enforceable AI protections remains the major obstacle.

SAG-AFTRA President Fran Drescher and other union leaders have stressed the need for fair treatment and protection against AI exploitation, emphasizing the industry's significant profits and the vital contributions of its members. They remain committed to securing a contract that protects actors' rights in the evolving video game landscape. The strike underscores the union's resolve to fight for fair compensation and ethical AI practices.