The Writers Guild of America (WGA) has entered into negotiations with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP) to secure better wages, working conditions, and protections for its members in the changing entertainment industry landscape. As of May 1, 2023, the status of negotiations reveals a significant gap between the WGA's proposals and the AMPTP's responses. This article examines the key proposals put forth by the WGA and the counter-offers by the AMPTP.

Minima

WGA PROPOSALS: The WGA proposed a 6%-5%-5% increase for all minima, including residual bases. AMPTP OFFERINGS: AMPTP proposed a 4%-3%-2% increase, with a one-time 2% or 2.5% increase for most residual bases.

Streaming functions

WGA PROPOSALS: The WGA proposes that streaming features with a budget of $12 million or more receive full theatrical terms, including better upfront compensation and residuals. AMPTP OFFERINGS: AMPTP is proposing a 9% increase in upfront compensation for HBSVOD programs made with a budget of $40 million or more, but no improvement in residual revenue.

Step 2 Guarantee

WGA PROPOSALS: The WGA proposes that a 2nd step be required if a writer is hired on a script for less than 250% of the minimum. AMPTP PROPOSALS: The AMPTP rejected this proposal but countered by offering meetings to educate creative executives and producers about screenwriters' concerns about free labor.

Weekly pay

WGA PROPOSALS: The WGA proposes that 50% of compensation be paid at the start of shooting, with the remaining 50% paid weekly during the writing period for writers paid at less than 250% of the minimum. Writers above this threshold would have the right to opt for weekly pay. AMPTP OFFERS: The AMPTP rejected this proposal and declined to make a counteroffer.

Appendix A

WGA PROPOSALS: The WGA proposes to extend the terms of TV's "Appendix A" to big-budget programming for SVOD, including weekly minimums, 13-week guarantees and "aggregate" based residuals. AMPTP OFFERINGS: The AMPTP proposes that the weekly minimums in Appendix A apply only to big-budget comedy/variety programs for SVOD, with specific budget thresholds and employment on a daily basis. These are just a few examples of the proposals and counter-offers presented in the negotiations between the WGA and AMPTP. The WGA's proposals are designed to ensure fair compensation, protections against abuse, and recognition of the value of writers' contributions in the streaming era. The AMPTP's responses, while not aligned with the WGA's proposals, demonstrate its position in the negotiations.
It is important to note that the numbers provided in the AMPTP offers, such as $86 million per year, represent a significantly lower figure than the $429 million per year that the WGA proposals would provide to screenwriters. This substantial difference highlights the challenges and differences that must be addressed to reach a mutually beneficial agreement.
As negotiations continue, the outcome will have a significant impact on the working conditions and livelihoods of screenwriters in the industry. Both the WGA and AMPTP play a critical role in shaping the future of the entertainment landscape. It remains to be seen how the negotiations