SAG-AFTRA Secures AI Protections for Actors

SAG-AFTRA's Strike Against Video Game Companies: A Fight for AI Protections and Fair Compensation

SAG-AFTRA, the actors' and broadcasters' union, has launched a strike against major video game companies, including Activision and Electronic Arts, over concerns about AI usage and fair compensation. This follows over a year of unsuccessful negotiations.

The core issue is the unregulated use of artificial intelligence in video game production. While not opposed to AI technology itself, SAG-AFTRA fears its potential to replace human performers. Key concerns include unauthorized AI replication of actors' voices and likenesses, and the displacement of actors in smaller roles, crucial for career progression. Ethical considerations surrounding AI-generated content that contradicts an actor's values are also raised.

To address these issues and others, SAG-AFTRA has developed alternative agreements. The Tiered-Budget Independent Interactive Media Agreement (I-IMA) offers a flexible framework for smaller budget projects ($250,000-$30 million), including AI protections initially rejected by the video game industry. A side deal with Replica Studios allows union members to license their voice replicas under controlled conditions, with the option to opt out of perpetual use.

The Interim Interactive Media Agreement and the Interim Interactive Localization Agreement provide temporary solutions during the strike, covering aspects like compensation, AI usage, rest periods, and payment terms. Crucially, projects under these agreements are exempt from the strike.

These agreements, however, exclude expansion packs and downloadable content released after the initial game launch. Key provisions of the interim agreements include:

• Right of Rescission; Producer’s Default
• Compensation
• Rate Maximum
• Artificial Intelligence/Digital Modeling
• Rest Periods
• Meal Periods
• Late Payments
• Health & Retirement
• Casting & Auditions - Self Tape
• Overnight Location Consecutive Employment
• Set Medics

Negotiations, which began in October 2022, culminated in a 98.32% vote in favor of strike authorization on September 24, 2023. The union remains firm in its demand for strong AI protections, citing the substantial profits of the video game industry and the invaluable contribution of its members.

SAG-AFTRA President Fran Drescher and other union leaders emphasize their unwavering commitment to securing fair treatment and preventing the exploitation of their members through the misuse of AI. The strike continues as the union presses for a contract that addresses these critical concerns.