Union, TV networks reach deal

The American Federation of Television and Radio Artists said it had reached a tentative contract on behalf of its members who work on reality shows, soap operas, talk shows and other television programs.

The three-year agreement negotiated with the four major television networks includes across-the-board wage increases, higher contributions to the union’s health and retirement plan and residual payments for shows streamed online.

The deal, which must be ratified by members, is separate from the prime-time TV and film contract expiring June 30 that has traditionally been negotiated with the federation’s sister union, the Screen Actors Guild.