On Monday, the results will be announced for the vote by Hollywood’s major trade unions on the labor contract which its negotiators hammered out with major studios. While the union’s leadership is urging members to ratify the proposal, many members are expressing concern that the agreement does not go far enough to long-held concerns, particularly in regards to working hours and conditions. Still, the prospect of a new work stoppage is unsettling to industry veterans, many remembering the disruptions caused on the strike of 2007–2008. Younger members appear to be more willing to vote NO on the current deal, holding out for better terms even if this results in a strike.
The vote format is similar to the U.S. electoral college, with each union holding a certain number of votes based on its size. Out of the thirteen participating union, the three largest – Cinematographers Guild, Editors Guild, and Prop Local – have the largest influence and could alone decide the overall outcome. If there is a split among them, then the tally from smaller unions will influence the final decision.
See also: IATSE’s Three Largest Hollywood Locals Could Determine Outcome of Contract Ratification Vote (Deadline)