Update on Right-to-Work States Regarding SAG TV, AFTRA TV, AFTRA Radio Commercials Contracts

—Union Security / Preference of Employment—

This bulletin regarding the employment of union performers in Right-to-Work states is provided for SAG and AFTRA JPC Authorizers and Direct Signatories to the SAG and AFTRA Commercials Contracts.

In December 2012, the state of Michigan signed into law legislation that makes Michigan the 24th state to have “Right-to-Work” laws on the books. Although it is possible that there may be legal challenges filed in regard to this legislation, Michigan is currently a right-to work state.

A right to work law is a statute that prohibits agreements between labor unions and employers that make membership, payment of union dues, or fees a condition of employment, either before or after hiring.

As a reminder regarding employment in right-to-work states under the SAG TV, AFTRA TV and AFTRA Radio Commercials Contracts: with the exception of the obligation to report the first employment of a performer, union security provisions do not otherwise apply in right-to-work states. Employers are required to report the first employment of a non-union member to the applicable union, within 15 business days of the session date.

Professional Recognition – Preference of Employment provisions do, however, apply in right-to-work states.

The following states are right-to-work states:

  • Alabama
  • Arizona
  • Arkansas
  • Florida
  • Georgia
  • Idaho
  • Indiana
  • Iowa
  • Kansas
  • Louisiana
  • Michigan
  • Mississippi
  • Nebraska
  • Nevada
  • North Carolina
  • North Dakota
  • Oklahoma
  • South Carolina
  • South Dakota
  • Tennessee
  • Texas
  • Utah
  • Virginia
  • Wyoming

In addition, the territory of Guam also has right-to-work laws, and employees of the U.S. Federal Government have the right to choose whether or not to join their respective unions.

For more information, contact 4A’s Management Services at [email protected].