Animation artists challenge AI terms in new Guild contract

The Animation Guild’s new contract with major studios has been met with mixed reactions, particularly around artificial intelligence protections and staffing minimums for its 5,000 members.

Key contract terms: The tentative agreement, reached on November 23rd after three months of negotiations, includes modest AI protections while securing some traditional labor gains.

• The deal requires studios to provide written notice when AI will be used in projects
• Members cannot opt out of AI use if required for their job or prevent their work from training AI models
• The agreement establishes a minimum of three writers for animated TV shows, with some exceptions
• Pay increases of 7%, 4%, and 3.5% were secured, matching gains by other entertainment unions

Industry concerns and pushback: Animation professionals have expressed significant worry about AI’s potential impact on their livelihoods and job security.

• Creator Shion Takeuchi warns that the contract lacks substantive protections against AI
• Some executives have reportedly discussed using AI to automate entire crafts like storyboarding
• Members have called for stronger measures, including an outright ban on AI in animation
• The union faced pressure from ongoing industry slowdown and fears about outsourcing

Negotiation constraints: The Animation Guild faced several limitations in pursuing stronger AI protections.

• A pre-existing clause allowing “technological changes” restricted the union’s bargaining power
• The union withdrew proposals for AI training opt-outs after meeting strong resistance
• Leaders argue a complete AI ban would risk pushing work to non-union workers
• Other entertainment unions have faced similar challenges in securing comprehensive AI protections

Notable achievements: Despite limitations, the contract includes several meaningful gains for animation professionals.

• New provisions establish pay equity for color designers, a traditionally female-dominated role
• Language ensures AI use won’t undermine pay or credit arrangements
• The agreement requires notification and consultation regarding AI implementation
• Certain staffing minimums were secured for writing positions

Future implications: The contract highlights ongoing tensions between technological advancement and creative worker protections in the animation industry.

• Union leaders are looking to courts and legislators for additional worker protections
• The notification requirements could increase transparency around AI implementation
• The deal must still be ratified by membership through upcoming virtual town halls
• Legal uncertainty remains regarding copyright protection for AI-generated work

Looking ahead: While the contract represents incremental progress in addressing AI concerns, the animation industry faces continued challenges in balancing technological innovation with worker protection, suggesting future negotiations may need to tackle these issues more comprehensively as AI technology evolves and its impacts become clearer.