Animation Guild members accept new contract with AI provisions

The Animation Guild has approved a new three-year contract with major studios, with 76.1% of members voting in favor. According to Variety reporter Gene Maddaus, the agreement includes wage increases of 7%, 4%, and 3.5% over three years, plus AI-related protections. While the contract establishes that AI work will be covered and cannot undermine members’ pay or credit, it falls short of allowing members to opt out of AI use or training. The deal includes notification requirements for AI implementation. Business representative Steve Kaplan acknowledged that more work on AI protections is needed, announcing plans for legislative lobbying and advocacy for human-made work incentives. Some members, including “The Mitchells vs. the Machines” director Mike Rianda, opposed the deal, citing insufficient AI safeguards.