Writers Guild of America members ratify contract

Members of the Writers Guild of America have ratified a new three-year deal with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers.

The new film and television contract was ratified by an overwhelming 98.5% of WGA members who voted. Of the 1,193 valid votes cast there were 1,175 “yes” votes and 18 “no” votes (1.5 %). There were 8,218 eligible voters.

The new contract, which runs through May 1, 2017, includes increases in minimum pay rates, higher contributions to the guild’s pension plan, as well increases in residuals for content that is streamed online.

The agreement also includes a new provision limiting the options and exclusivity requirements often imposed on episodic television writers.

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“Each negotiating cycle is marked by the hard work of the Negotiating Committee, member volunteers, and Guild staff. Our thanks go out to all of those who contributed to the process and to the members who participated in the ratification vote. We continue to build on the battles won by our predecessors and fight for the rights of generations to come,” said WGA West President Chris Keyser and WGA East President Michael Winship.

“We were able to achieve this agreement only because the parties were willing to work together to explore solutions to some difficult issues,” the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers said in a statement. “We hope to build on that collaborative foundation by encouraging a continuing dialogue with the WGA during the term of the upcoming contract.”

SAG-AFTRA, which represents actors and other performers, begins its contract negotiations next week.

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Twitter: @rverrier

richard.verrier@latimes.com