Official Business

Affordable Care Act/”Obamacare” Reminder Just a reminder that the deadline for applying for coverage that begins on January 1 is December 15. While the enhanced subsidies have expired, the pre-pandemic subsidies and protections are sill in place, so if you are concerned about cost increases, it still pays to apply and see what plans/prices are READ MORE

Last Month at the Local

Last month a number of members inquired about collecting their pension benefits. If you work under an AFM contract, you probably have pension benefits accruing, and you can begin collecting them as early as age 55, or with full benefits at 65. It will take a month or two to process paperwork before you can READ MORE

Membership Benefits

The American Federation of Musicians is integrally involved with three societies that collect and distribute royalties to musicians. Only one of these societies–the AFM and AFTRA Intellectual Property Rights Distribution Fund–is dedicated to serving the needs of session musicians. It is the organization with the longest name, the leanest staff, and the toughest mission, and READ MORE

That Union Thing

House of Blues workers have voted to be represented by IATSE. House of Blues is owned by Live Nation, and this is the first music venue in the franchise to be unionized. Workers hope to secure better working conditions and more predictable schedules. The Independent Workers Union of Great Britain has accused Rockstar Games of READ MORE

Local and Industry News

Actors Equity has reached an agreement with the Broadway League for a new three-year contract. Wages will rise three percent in each year, and Health Fund contributions will rise $25 each year. Additionally, actors will be able to request physical therapy at any time and will only be required to work a maximum of 12 READ MORE