SAG-AFTRA releases counterproposals amid continuing discussions on performer rights and AI

The union representing 160,000 professionals in acting and media fields, SAG-AFTRA, has put forth an extensive proposal regarding AI usage in response to an offer from video game companies dated April 30. The union's proposal aims to clearly explain how these changes would affect performers.

In a detailed document accessible on their website, SAG-AFTRA highlighted concerns including adjustments to the secondary performance payment (SPP). They questioned the criteria set by gaming companies regarding the use of "vocal digital replicas" instead of live performers.

"Initially, employers wanted AI protections to apply only to new performances under the Interactive Media Agreement (IMA)," the union stated. "This left past performances and those outside the scope of the IMA unprotected."

The union acknowledged that employers are now ready to extend protections to any work done under the IMA, regardless of when it was completed, as a Digital Replica. Additionally, for projects under the IMA, replicas cannot be classified as independently created digital replicas.

SAG-AFTRA pointed out that agreeing to employer terms on consent could lead to financial penalties for performers who wish to avoid scabbing a strike with their digital likeness, potentially costing them $6,000 or more per game.

Another contentious issue involved a clause suggesting employers could use a performer's Replica during pre-production of a franchise without prior consent but would offer at least the base scale as compensation.

"We believe performers should always be informed and consent obtained," SAG-AFTRA stated. The union noted that while some companies compensate performers per session for pre-production, many do not or opt not to use performers. Offering a single session fee for all scratch work is seen as a compromise.

For a comprehensive look at SAG-AFTRA's counterproposals, visit their website.

In July, SAG-AFTRA announced a strike after unsuccessful negotiations concerning AI-related rights and protections with video game companies. Updates issued in March indicated that a significant divide remained between SAG-AFTRA and major gaming firms. This development followed reports that two Zenless Zone Zero voice actors were replaced due to the strike.

Following these events, SAG-AFTRA established new agreements that allow its members to collaborate with students and engage in game jams.