December 21, 2020
The new COVID-19 relief bill passed by Congress today contains numerous wins for SAG-AFTRA members, including pandemic assistance and expanded protections for creative works.
The most immediate benefits are the restarting of the pandemic unemployment assistance benefits, $300 a week through March 14, for all eligible Americans. For those with nontraditional employment, like many SAG-AFTRA members, participating states will make an additional $100 available. SAG-AFTRA led the charge on this benefit for mixed-earners. Coupled with the $600 stimulus check, the funds can make a big difference for those out of work or struggling to get by.
SAG-AFTRA President Gabrielle Carteris lauded the passage of the bill.