Writers Guild Staff Union Secures Tentative Pact with WGA West, Ending 79-Day Strike

The Writers Guild Staff Union (WGSU) has reached a tentative agreement with the Writers Guild of America West (WGAW), bringing a potential end to the 79-day strike that forced the closure of the WGA’s Fairfax headquarters.

“After nearly three months of strength, unity, and resolve, WGSU members were able to secure seniority provisions in layoffs and a no-strike clause that both parties agree protects concerted activity.”

The union, represented by the Pacific Northwest Staff Union, outlined key gains in the proposed contract:

• Seniority provisions in layoffs: Prioritize institutional knowledge and dedication to WGA members.
• Wage increases: Minimum 12% total raises over three years, including an 8% increase in 2026.
• Salary floor hike: Raised from $43,000 to $57,000 retroactive to August 11, 2025.
• Longevity increases: Retroactive adjustments for members in the same role for 5, 10, or 15 years, effective January 1, 2026.
• Wage scale alignment: Conversion to a scale modeled after WGA East’s staff union.
• Just cause provisions: Progressive discipline and a stepped grievance process.
• Labor-Management Committee: New committee to foster healthy workplace communication.
• AI and contractor protections: Safeguards against replacement by AI, temps, or contractors.

The WGSU Bargaining Committee urged members to vote yes in the upcoming ratification vote:

“A ratification vote will be held in the coming days. The Bargaining Committee is enthusiastically recommending our members vote yes. Once ratified, the WGSU strike will end and Writers Guild staff will return to doing what we do best: defending the writers’ hard-fought gains and helping them build collective power.”