Writers for CBS News 24/7 say they are ready to strike if a new contract deal isn’t reached soon between their union and Paramount/CBS management.
The bargaining unit at CBS News’ free streaming channel delivered a strike pledge on Tuesday calling for “a fair deal with our union by the end of today.” Tuesday marks the last scheduled bargaining date for the group of writers, producers and graphic designers, who are represented by the Writers Guild of America East.
Ninety-five percent of the bargaining unit signed the pledge, which called for the company to “meet us where we are at on our most important issues” including guaranteed wage increases, overtime directives, union jurisdiction and work from home policies.
The group’s labor contract expired just before midnight on Monday, allowing the union to stage a work stoppage if it desires.
“Our colleagues on the bargaining committee have put in significant time and effort to negotiate our new contract,” the pledge stated. “We pledge to support them and will participate at minimum in a 24-hour walkout and strike if necessary to win a contract that protects the things that matter to us the most.”
The message continued, “We call on management to reach a fair deal with our union by the end of today, our last scheduled bargaining date. We pledge to walk out and, if necessary, strike for a fair contract.”
Negotiations began on Feb. 10 for the union’s third contract. The Hollywood Reporter has reached out to CBS News for comment.
More to come.
