The Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) is a labor union representing actors, announcers, broadcast journalists, dancers, DJs, news writers, news editors, program hosts, puppeteers, recording artists, singers, stunt performers, and voiceover artists who work in film, television, radio, and new media. SAG-AFTRA protects the rights and benefits of its members, negotiates and enforces collective bargaining agreements, and provides services and support to its members.

One of the important tools that SAG-AFTRA uses to protect its members is the assumption agreement. An assumption agreement is a written agreement between a producer and SAG-AFTRA that assures that the producer will abide by the terms and conditions of the collective bargaining agreement that SAG-AFTRA has negotiated for its members. By signing an assumption agreement, the producer assumes and agrees to comply with all the obligations and requirements of the SAG-AFTRA contract, including payment of wages, benefits, and residuals, as well as compliance with health and safety standards and other provisions.

An assumption agreement is usually required prior to the start of any production involving SAG-AFTRA members. The agreement must be signed and submitted to the union along with all necessary documentation, such as a budget, shooting schedule, cast list, and script. The agreement is subject to review and approval by SAG-AFTRA, and any changes or modifications must be approved by the union.

An assumption agreement serves as a safeguard for SAG-AFTRA members, who are entitled to receive fair compensation and treatment for their work. It also protects the producer by ensuring that they are in compliance with the collective bargaining agreement, thereby avoiding potential legal disputes and penalties.

In addition to the assumption agreement, SAG-AFTRA provides other tools and resources to assist its members and producers in ensuring compliance with the collective bargaining agreement, including payroll services, production reports, and monitoring and enforcement of the contract.

In conclusion, the assumption agreement is an important tool that SAG-AFTRA uses to protect the rights and benefits of its members and to ensure compliance with the collective bargaining agreement. Any producer working with SAG-AFTRA members should be aware of the requirements and obligations of the agreement and should adhere to them to avoid potential legal disputes and penalties. SAG-AFTRA members can rely on the assurance that the assumption agreement provides, knowing that they will be compensated fairly for their work and treated with respect and dignity.