The Writers Guild of America (WGA) recently announced the ratification of their 2020 Theatrical and Television Basic Agreement. This agreement covers the terms and conditions of employment for writers working in film, television, and digital media. The agreement was reached after months of negotiations between the WGA and the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP).

One of the key points of the agreement is increased compensation for writers. The WGA negotiated higher minimums for writers working on both theatrical and television projects, as well as increases to residuals for streaming content. This is a significant win for writers, who often struggle to make a living wage in the competitive entertainment industry.

The agreement also includes provisions for better working conditions for writers. This includes better break and meal times, as well as improved healthcare and pension benefits. The WGA also secured commitments from the AMPTP to address issues related to harassment and discrimination in the workplace.

Another important aspect of the agreement is the inclusion of several new provisions related to inclusion and diversity. The WGA negotiated a requirement for studios to report on the diversity of their writing staffs, as well as commitments to increase the hiring of women and people of color.

The agreement also includes language related to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. It outlines safety protocols for writers working on set, as well as provisions for compensation in the event of a production shutdown due to the pandemic.

Overall, the 2020 Theatrical and Television Basic Agreement is a major win for the WGA and for writers in the entertainment industry. The increased compensation, better working conditions, and diversity provisions will help to ensure that writers are able to make a living wage and work in a safe and inclusive environment. The agreement also sets a strong precedent for future negotiations and highlights the importance of collective bargaining in protecting the rights of workers.