Coronavirus/COVID-19 Updates for DGA Members

¹The white paper was developed by the Industry-Wide Labor-Management Safety Committee Task Force consisting of the unions named here, together with the AMPTP.

Click here for the COVID-19 Full Return to Work Safety Agreement PDF

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July 21, 2020

Expanded Relief for DGA Members: A Message from Directors Guild Foundation Chairman Todd Holland

Dear DGA Members:

Expanded emergency relief is here.

When we first launched the Foundation’s COVID-19 Emergency Relief Fund in April, our $1,000 grant criteria were focused on members who’d lost their jobs in the shutdown.

Now with the majority of production remaining shuttered, more help is needed. Therefore we are expanding that eligibility criteria. If you worked regularly in a DGA capacity last year, you may be eligible. Below are the details and information on how to get started.

Expanded Eligibility criteria

• DGA member in good standing;
• 2019 earnings of at least $30,000 in a DGA category OR were working or had a commitment to work in a DGA category at the time of the production suspension in March;
• Less than $10,000 in liquid assets (bank statements will be required);
• A demonstrated need.

Getting Started is a Phone Call Away

Our longtime partners at the Motion Picture and Television Fund are administering this emergency relief on behalf of the Foundation. For more information and to get started, please call the MPTF on its hotline – (888) 356-0537 – or contact them through the website: www.mptf.com – and their professional social workers will guide you through the application process.

Additional information about the Emergency Fund and the DGF’s longstanding confidential, interest-free loan program for members experiencing financial crises and emergencies can be found at www.dga.org/Foundation.

It is because of the generosity of all those contributing to the Directors Guild Foundation that we’ve been able to expand this emergency relief. Thank you for doing your part to keep alive our proud tradition of helping our fellow brothers and sisters in need.

Todd Holland
Chairman, Directors Guild Foundation

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July 14, 2020

Expanded Assistance for DGA Members: DGA Plans Board of Trustees Extends Availability of Temporary Loans from Your Supplemental Plan Account Balance through December 31, 2020

As part of ongoing efforts advocating for member relief during the COVID-19 crisis, the DGA Plans announced the extension of a critical lifeline. To further assist participants experiencing financial hardship amid the continued work stoppage, the Board of Trustees of the Directors Guild of America – Producer Pension and Health Plans has unanimously voted to extend the availability of temporary loans from the Supplemental Benefit Plan through December 31, 2020. Click here to read more

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June 12, 2020

‘The Safe Way Forward’ Joint Report from the DGA, SAG-AFTRA, IATSE, and Teamsters on COVID-19 Safety Guidelines to Provide Safe Workplaces in a Pre-Vaccine World

Detailed Protocols Grounded in Latest Science From Foremost Epidemiologists and Experts

Click here to see the full set of guidelines and and a listing of the experts consulted by the Unions and Guilds. The document will be updated with further specific safety protocols from IATSE locals, SAG-AFTRA, Teamsters and the Basic Craft Unions as they are developed.

LOS ANGELES – In the next major step toward the resumption of film and television production, the Directors Guild of America (DGA), International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE), International Brotherhood of Teamsters (IBT) and the Basic Crafts, and Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) today released "The Safe Way Forward," a Multi-Union Report on Covid-19 Safety Guidelines. The Guidelines set forth a detailed set of science-based protocols serving as a path for Employers to uphold their responsibility of providing safe workplaces in a pre-vaccine, Covid-19 world. The Guidelines serve as an essential and necessary element of a return to work for the Unions and Guilds representing film and television casts and crews.

Developed jointly by the Unions and Guilds in consultation with leading epidemiologists and experts, the Guidelines are a follow-up to the Industry White Paper[1] recently delivered to the Governors of New York and California, and other state governments. While the White Paper offered a foundation for the appropriate state agencies to examine the resumption of production, and provides guidance Employers must follow to provide a safe working environment, it expressly contemplated that specific protocols regarding mandatory testing, personal protective equipment (PPE), and department-specific procedures would be the subject of further discussions and agreement between the producers and the unions. Today's Guidelines announced by the Unions and Guilds set forth key components of those detailed protocols.

The Unions and Guilds worked in close coordination with one another as they consulted with an array of experts ranging from preeminent epidemiologists and scientists to risk analysts and specialists in public health and occupational health and safety. By delving into up-to-the minute medical expertise, the science of Covid-19 transmission, and the unique risk factors their members would be confronted with in the production environment, the group developed tailored protocols to protect cast and crew. A central focus is the protection of performers, who are among the most vulnerable on set given they are not always able to observe physical distancing or wear personal protective equipment (PPE) when cameras are rolling.

Testing is the Key to the Resumption of Production

The Unions and Guilds quickly determined that a comprehensive, mandatory testing regimen would need to be the cornerstone of a safe return to production in a pre-vaccine landscape. Without testing, the entire cast and crew would be working in an environment of unknown risk. Confirmed cases would be determined days after people have been shedding the virus – potentially endangering the health of cast and crew members. Moreover, they could lead to the quarantining of others on set, and should those individuals include a key actor or director, to production delays or even a production shutdown. Not to mention the public health implications associated with cast and crew members interacting with the public and going home to their families.

Testing Frequency and the Zone System

The Guidelines lay out that:

• Every member of the cast and crew be tested for active Covid-19 infection before their first day of work to ensure they are not shedding the virus. Cast and crew members will then be subject to regular testing protocols during the course of their work on the production.


• Given that performers are uniquely vulnerable for the reasons described above, the Guidelines require a higher testing frequency of at least three times a week at minimum for them as well as those with whom they come into close contact.


• Individuals who work in areas like the production office – where physical distancing and PPE can be utilized – can be tested less frequently, at a minimum of once a week. Other variables impacting testing frequency include the prevalence of the virus in a given community, and the rate that the infection is being spread.[2]

In order to ensure these different sections of the production environment are tightly controlled, the Guidelines require the implementation of a specialized "Zone" system laying out barriers within which those on set can flow based on proximity to cast, level of testing, PPE and the extent to which physical distancing can be observed in the performance of their work. Cast and those with whom they come into frequent contact would be grouped in Zone A, while other individuals on set would be grouped in Zone B. The Zone system is the structure and foundation around which all on-set Covid-19 safety decisions should be engineered. A detailed tour of the inner-workings of the Zone system is included in the Guidelines.

New Health and Safety On-Set Positions

To execute testing and the Zone System, the Guidelines require the creation and staffing of two new positions/departments with authority to oversee the production to ensure the Guidelines are being followed, and to take immediate action to correct any unsafe practices or conditions:

• A Health Safety Supervisor (HSS) (referred to in the Industry White Paper as the "Covid-19 Compliance Officer") would be in charge of the testing process, hire and coordinate the necessary Covid-19 medical staff, and be responsible for related health safety for the production. The HSS has the authority to pause the production in event that a breach threatens the health of the cast or the crew.


• There would also be a Health Safety Department, with a Manager and staff. The Health Safety Unit Manager (HSM) would oversee the execution of HSS directives in conjunction with the directors' team, and other relevant department heads.

The full set of Guidelines, and a listing of the experts consulted by the Unions and Guilds, can be found here. The document will be updated with further specific safety protocols from IATSE locals, SAG-AFTRA, Teamsters and the Basic Craft Unions as they are developed.

Thomas Schlamme, President, Directors Guild of America
"Safely getting back to our work of storytelling, and reuniting with our creative community is at the top of all our minds. But in these fast-changing times amid such a complicated virus, figuring out how to get that done right was no easy task. We knew the only way forward was to consult with leading medical experts and let science guide us to the right approach for our unique work environments. It was only through that Herculean process, and our close coordination with our sister guilds and unions, that we were able to develop the most effective solutions to keep all of our members safe. At the DGA, this was many weeks of hard work and we are eternally indebted to our Covid-19 Safety Committee led by Steven Soderbergh who so intimately understands the complex issues at hand. Through the dedication of everyone involved, we are all that much closer to being able to get back to telling stories together."

Gabrielle Carteris, President, Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists
"We're pleased to share this crucial report which includes meaningful protocols and requirements for a safer return to work. We commend each of our union and guild partners for their diligence, determination and hard work throughout this collaborative and productive process. The report reflects our shared goal of ensuring the safest possible return to production for all of our members throughout the entertainment and media industry."

Matthew D. Loeb, International President, International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees
"These steps are key in our efforts to safely reopen the Motion Picture and Television Production Industry, and they would not have been possible without the collaboration between the other guilds and unions. We look forward to continuing to work with the industry and our local unions on getting our members back to work the right way."

Thomas J. O'Donnell
Director, Teamsters Motion Picture & Theatrical Trade Division
&
Steve Dayan
Chairman of the Hollywood Basic Crafts Unions
"On behalf of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters and the Hollywood Basic Crafts Unions, we are grateful for the collective and collaborative process that took place between all of our Sister Guilds and Unions, in developing these guidelines. We will be continuing discussions with our Members and committees to finalize our own internal protocols and procedures that will best support our Members within all of the classifications we represent, in order to bring our Members safely back to work."

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Contact:

DGA
Lily Bedrossian
LBedrossian@dga.org / 310-289-5334

SAG-AFTRA
Pamela Greenwalt
pamela.greenwalt@sagaftra.org / 323-549-6872

IATSE
Jonas Loeb
press@iatse.net

Teamsters
Amy Gorton
amy@ht399.org / 818-432-3316

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Footnotes

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June 8, 2020

DGA Plans Board of Trustees Approves Three Months of Premium-Free COBRA Coverage for Health Plan Participants with Earned Active Coverage Terminating September 30, 2020

Previously, the Board of Trustees of the Directors Guild of America-Producer Pension and Health Plans approved a three-month period of premium-free COBRA coverage to Health Plan participants whose earned active coverage terminates on June 30, 2020. Recognizing the continued shutdown of production since mid-March due to the coronavirus outbreak, and the impact this has on participants, the Board of Trustees has approved a three-month period of premium-free COBRA coverage to Health Plan participants whose earned active coverage terminates on September 30, 2020.

Similar to participants losing earned active coverage on June 30, 2020, participants whose earned active coverage ends on September 30th are eligible for a three-month period of premium-free COBRA coverage, provided the Health Plan is their primary plan.

Eligible Health Plan participants will automatically receive the three months of premium-free COBRA coverage, continuing at the same level as your current Health Plan coverage, with no additional action required. If you plan to continue COBRA coverage beyond the three-month premium-free period or if you would like your premium-free COBRA coverage at a level lower than your current coverage, you will need to indicate your preference by completing and returning the COBRA Election Form included in your open enrollment materials. You should receive your open enrollment materials by mid-September.

Participants with other coverage as their primary plan, including Medicare, or who are eligible for retiree or carry-over coverage under the Health Plan are not eligible.

• For questions, please contact the Eligibility Department at (323) 866-2200, Ext. 502.
• For a list of temporary measures enacted by the DGA Plans Board of Trustees in response to the COVID-19 crisis as well as other resources available during this challenging time, visit the Plans’ COVID-19 Resources and Updates page.

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June 1, 2020

DGA Coronavirus Update: The Work of Getting Back to Work

MESSAGE FROM DGA PRESIDENT
THOMAS SCHLAMME & NATIONAL EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR RUSSELL HOLLANDER

Dear Members:

Getting back to doing what we love, being able to support ourselves and our loved ones, and doing it safely, is the top concern on all our minds. Your Guild is working around the clock with our sister Guilds and Unions and the Employers to make that a reality as soon as possible. We know that you have questions about what’s going on with our DGA National Board Covid-19 Safety Committee, and that there also may be some confusion stemming from reports about different groups working on their own efforts. It’s true there is a lot going on, and that’s a good thing. Let us explain how it all fits together.

First, at the request of the Governors of New York and California, we have been working with an Industry-Wide Labor-Management Safety Committee Task Force to develop the blueprint for production to resume. This Task Force also consists of representatives from the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE), the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, the Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA), as well as the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP) and other producer representatives. For over a month, the Task Force has been working to develop an Industry White Paper with high level guidelines to enable film and television production to resume. That document – which sets forth detailed guidance employers must follow to provide a safe working environment for our members, other industry workers and the general public – is being submitted to Governors Cuomo and Newsom today. It addresses areas including set hygiene, disinfection and maintenance, catering, mandatory employment of Covid-19 Compliance Officer(s), symptom screening, physical distancing, paid leave policies and Covid-19 training, among other critically important topics necessary for the safe resumption of production.

While the Industry White Paper provides a solid foundation for the appropriate state agencies to examine the resumption of production, and calls for mandatory testing – it also expressly states that with respect to mandatory testing protocols and other key areas such as personal protective equipment (PPE), department-specific operational protocols and project-specific workflows, there will be further discussions between the Producers and the Unions and Guilds.

That is where our Committee and our coordinated efforts with our sister Guilds and Unions come in. Beginning with the work of our Committee, it has been meeting regularly for over six weeks to develop plans addressing these issues. From the outset, the Committee recognized a science-based approach was vital to getting these protocols right. The reality is that we live in a pre-vaccine world, and physical distancing and PPE are not always possible in our unique workplaces, particularly for those performing in front of the camera. And so, the Committee assembled a coalition of world-renowned epidemiologists and infectious disease experts to help in the development of a plan. They include:

• W. Ian Lipkin, MD, John Snow Professor of Epidemiology and Director for the Center of Infection and Immunity at the Mailman School of Health, Professor of Pathology and Neurology at the Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons at Columbia University;
• Larry Brilliant, MD, MPH, Physician and epidemiologist, currently serving as the CEO of Pandefense Advisory and Chair of the Advisory Board of the NGO Ending Pandemics;
• Baruch Fischhoff, PhD, Howard Heinz University Professor in the Department of Engineering and Public Policy at Carnegie Mellon University, where he specializes in decision and risk analysis; and
• Jeffrey Shaman, PhD, Professor of Environmental Health Sciences in the International Research Institute for Climate and Society/Earth Institute at Columbia University’s Mailman School of Health – who modeled various testing protocols for the Committee.

Based on the guidance provided by our consultants, it quickly became apparent that testing would be the cornerstone of our recommendations. We cannot emphasize enough the importance of this. Without testing, the entire cast and crew would be working in an environment of unknown risk. Confirmed cases, determined days after people have been spreading the virus, could potentially endanger the health of cast and crew members. Moreover, they could lead to the quarantining of others on set, and should those individuals include a principal actor or director, to production delays or even a production shutdown.

For this reason, the Committee is recommending that first, every member of the cast and crew be tested for active Covid-19 infection before their first day of work to ensure they are not spreading the virus. Cast and crew members should then be subject to regular testing protocols during the course of their work on the production. The frequency of that testing should be based on a number of factors. In recognition that performers are among the most vulnerable because they cannot wear PPE when cameras are rolling, and frequently will not be able to engage in physical distancing, there must be higher testing frequency for them and those with whom they come into close contact. On the other hand, individuals who work in areas like the production office – where physical distancing and PPE can be utilized – do not need to be tested as frequently. In order to ensure these different sections of the production environment are tightly controlled, the Committee recommends the implementation of a specialized "Zone" system, which sets out the environments and barriers within which those on set can flow based on proximity to cast, level of testing, PPE and the extent to which physical distancing can be observed in the performance of their work.

Testing frequency may also be impacted by the prevalence of the virus in a given community, and the rate that the infection is being spread. Another factor to be accounted for is testing availability and the need for rapid results. Fortunately, it is expected that these issues will be resolved in the near future, and can be scaled to the needs of production. Other detailed protocols laid out in the Committee’s recommendations include procedures around strict physical distancing and the use of medically approved, employer-provided PPE. The Committee’s recommendations also expand upon the roles of the on-set Covid-19 monitor, emphasizing the importance of their authority to correct unsafe practices or conditions, and to address issues as they arise.

While our Committee has been going through this highly detailed process, our sister unions IATSE, SAG-AFTRA and the Teamsters have been engaged in similar work with their own experts. And we have all been in constant contact with one another, as have our respective consultants. We've shared our views, information and developments with them, and they’ve done the same with us and with each other. That close coordination is ongoing, and you should anticipate hearing more from us soon.

We thank our Committee for all the challenging work they continue to tackle with tireless dedication. These are incredibly complex issues to solve, the science is still rapidly developing, and it’s all being done amid a world changing at breakneck speeds. Through it all, what drives us is getting this right for our members, other industry workers and the general public, so a quick, safe and sustainable return to work can be realized.

The road back is finally taking shape, and we remain optimistic. We appreciate the need to get back to work and know that the timing is exceedingly important; getting it right is mandatory.

We also want to acknowledge the pain and anguish we are all feeling right now in the wake of the killing of George Floyd and the ongoing social injustice in our nation. There’s more we plan to say about that very soon.

Thomas Schlamme
President

Russell Hollander
National Executive Director

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May 20, 2020

Workplace Safety During COVID-19 – Alert Your Guild with any Work Offers

Dear Member:

In these unprecedented times, your Guild is working hard to ensure that employers' health and safety obligations to members are being taken seriously. Our extensive efforts are well underway as we consult with top medical experts, and closely coordinate with our sister unions and the greater industry to determine what a safe return to set can and should look like.

In this timeframe before industry-wide safety protocols are agreed upon and adopted, you should immediately contact the Guild (via the phone number or email address below) if you are approached to work on any production that intends on resuming or beginning production so our Contracts team can provide appropriate guidance and make sure the employer is meeting its obligations to provide a safe workplace. If you are asked to sign any document releasing the employer from liability, you should contact us immediately and refrain from signing such document until after we've had an opportunity to review it and consult with the employer.

The information you provide to us will not only help you today – it will also help to keep your fellow members protected into tomorrow.

DGA Contracts Department Contact Information:
Phone: (310) 289-2010 - Email: Contracts@dga.org

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May 19, 2020

DGA Makes Temporary Exception to Award Eligibility for Filmmakers Impacted by COVID-19 Theater Closures

LOS ANGELES – In recognition of the impact the COVID-19 pandemic has had on the theatrical exhibition of directors’ works, the DGA today announced that it will make a temporary exception to the 2021 DGA Awards eligibility criteria for the Theatrical Feature Film, First-Time Feature Film, and Documentary categories.

"Every aspect of our world and our lives has been affected by this pandemic – and that includes our culture," said DGA President Thomas Schlamme. "Numerous directors who’ve spent years bringing their visions to life are grappling with the reality that their theatrical releases are canceled. And while the unfortunate circumstances of this present situation prevent those plans from coming to fruition as their films are now being distributed on other platforms, we want to ensure that our members are being recognized by their peers for their work as intended. It is in this spirit that we are allowing a rule exception for the 2021 DGA Awards."

The temporary rule exception was passed by a unanimous vote of the DGA National Board at its April meeting. Regularly, a seven-day theatrical run in Los Angeles or New York is required for filmmakers to be eligible for consideration in the Theatrical Feature Film, First-Time Feature Film, and Documentary DGA Awards categories – and for the Theatrical Feature Film category, that run must be prior to any other exhibition (i.e. no day-and-date streaming or on-demand). The limited exception for the 2021 DGA Awards will apply to theatrical motion pictures that establish they had a scheduled or planned bona fide theatrical release with a commercial motion picture theater distribution chain in Los Angeles or New York after March 13, 2020 when the theaters closed – and were instead distributed on video on demand (pay-per-view or streaming) on a national platform for at least seven (7) consecutive days.

Precise eligibility criteria is being determined as the situation develops.

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May 15, 2020

DGA Fast-Tracks Distribution of $9 Million in Foreign Levies

LOS ANGELES – The Directors Guild of America (DGA) today announced the fast-tracking of nearly $9 million in foreign levies to 5,000 directors over the past week. As production remains suspended due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Guild has continued its work to expedite vital income when it is most needed. Foreign levies are fees collected by foreign countries in part to compensate rights holders for the effects of re-use, copying, rental and retransmission of their films and television programs. This income to members as well as non-member directors was made possible by the DGA’s successful efforts over three decades ago to negotiate agreements with foreign collecting societies, and challenge the studios’ claims to these monies.

"This present situation sheds light on why we fight so hard to advance our members’ rights, and the difference it can make. Similar to our efforts with residuals, the DGA has been working around the clock to expedite distribution of this biannual run of foreign levies when it’s most needed," said DGA National Executive Director Russell Hollander. "And also similar to residuals, foreign levies are a stream of income that would not have been possible without our Guild’s decades-long fight to financially connect members to the success of their work."

Through the years, the DGA foreign levies department has distributed over $242 million to directors – including more than $28 million to 6,700 non-members – and donated over $3.5 million to the Motion Picture & Television Fund.

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May 8, 2020

A message from DGA President Thomas Schlamme and National Executive Director Russell Hollander

Dear Members:

We hope that you are safe in these challenging times, and that you’re able to take comfort and solace in being with loved ones. As we’ve been doing, we wanted to keep you updated on your Guild’s efforts to keep us all protected, connected and on the path to a brighter future.

We know that the number one thing on your minds, on all of our minds, is getting back to work doing what we love, as this situation impacts us all personally, economically and creatively. And as powerful as that desire is, the key to getting there is the safety of our members and all industry workers. That is something we take very seriously, and it’s what is driving all our hard work in this area. In our last letter, you’ll recall we announced the formation of a National Board Committee, which includes Guild leaders and members from every category. The Committee is working day and night to determine what a safe return to production can and should look like. We’re being incredibly diligent in our approach, applying the latest science, and consulting with top medical experts and risk analysts. But as you know from the intricacies of production, there are a lot of complex issues involved, not to mention the fluidity of this situation, and the many unknowns. We are in the thick of it now. As Brando said in On the Waterfront, "There's more to this than I thought, Charley … there's a lot more." As things progress, we’ll be sharing our work with our sister unions and with employers – taking in their feedback to ensure it reflects the reality of every area. There’s much left to be done, but there’s a lot riding on this, and it’s just too important to not get it right.

Over the past few weeks we’ve also been on a listening tour with our category Councils which have continued with their regular meetings, virtually, as has our National Board. One issue that came up frequently centered on missing the camaraderie with peers since our buildings have closed. We are all such collaborative creatures, and our Guild is no different. Which is why we’re pleased to say that we are finding secure ways to program events and expand meetings online. The Special Projects Committee has been ramping up, as have the Diversity committees and Director Development Initiative. Further building on our government affairs work, the Leadership Council is planning meetings with lawmakers to push our legislative agenda. And while we aren’t able to have our Annual Meeting in person, we are looking at ways to host it virtually. More information on that will be coming soon.

Just as serious as your creative and economic protection, is the human aspect – and we know that some of you are feeling the strain of this pandemic emotionally. If that’s something you’re experiencing, we encourage you to reach out for help. The DGA-Producer Pension and Health Plans in March approved the temporary coverage of telemedicine for participants – that includes telepsychology visits. Additionally, the Motion Picture & Television Fund (www.mptf.com) and Actors Fund (www.actorsfund.org) have information on counseling resources.

We are also pleased to share more on our Guild’s work to fast-track income into members’ pockets when you most need it. You’ll remember that our residuals department has been firing on all cylinders to do just that. Our foreign levies team has also been working around the clock and will begin distributing millions of dollars in foreign levies in the next few days. As a reminder, foreign levies are fees collected by foreign countries in part to compensate rights holders for the effects of copying, rental and retransmission of their films and television programs. This money to members was made possible by the DGA’s successful efforts to negotiate agreements with foreign collecting societies, and challenge the studios’ claims to these monies.

Additionally, we continue all our other important work we’ve covered in past letters from enforcing our contracts; to ensuring our members still doing essential work in news, under challenging circumstances, are being kept safe by employers; to relief from the DGA-Producer-Pension and Health Plans; to fighting for federal and state aid for members; to expanded member aid through a new COVID-19 Emergency Relief Fund from the Directors Guild Foundation. And more recently, as some talk/variety shows and commercials have begun shooting remotely, we’ve been closely involved to ensure our members and jurisdiction are being protected.

Every single day we are working hard to not only protect our future, but to shape it into what it should be. It’s what we wake up and go to sleep thinking about. There will be challenges, there will be obstacles. It will not be easy. But we will get through this on our way to that future we’re shaping together.

Please continue to be safe as we continue our work fighting for you, navigating every decision with kindness and compassion.

Thomas Schlamme
President

Russell Hollander
National Executive Director

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April 20, 2020

A Message to the Working Professionals in the Entertainment Industry

Dear Members:

The undersigned guilds and unions represent the diverse, professional workforce that, in ordinary times, come together on productions throughout each year to bring our stories to life for audiences across the globe. Now, in this time when the coronavirus pandemic has brought an unprecedented challenge to our industry, our solidarity is more important than ever before. We come together on behalf of our respective memberships to ensure coordination between our efforts to secure relief, financial support and other critical assistance for the working professionals in this industry. Our members understand the unique power of collective action. Through our unity, we reinforce that power to safeguard our members as much as possible during the extraordinary set of events we face today.

As always, our first concern is your safety and health, and that of your loved ones. We urge members to follow the updated guidance from the CDC and other government authorities in your area. This includes practicing rigorous sanitation efforts and abiding by the "social distancing" directives now in effect across the country. This not only helps to keep you safe but contributes to the effort to bring the pandemic under control, which allows everyone to return to work more quickly. We can all be a part of the solution to this crisis and we hope that each of us takes our role in this effort seriously.

As you know, each of the undersigned organizations has engaged in measures to provide relief and support for our respective memberships. However, it is important that you know that we also have worked together, and with industry and labor allies, in a variety of ways to protect our members. This includes: advocating for the inclusion of our workforce in the direct cash payments and expanded unemployment insurance available in the federal government’s aid packages recently passed by Congress; ensuring as many of our members as possible are included in state assistance programs across the country; channeling urgently needed donations to the industry’s charitable organizations that give direct support to the industry’s workforce; sharing information and ideas on ways to support the sustained financial well-being of our pension and health plans, which are all impacted by the pandemic; and monitoring and addressing, however needed, the steps taken by companies in response to this crisis – steps that directly impact our members.

Importantly, we are also focused on the protective measures that will need to be enacted to keep professionals safe on production sets and other work environments once people can return to work.

We are pleased to report that the above efforts have been fortified in ways great and small by partners and allies throughout the industry, several of which have agreed to find ways to direct resources to our members and to coordinate on various relief efforts. Such measures showcase the best virtues of our industry and are greatly appreciated.

The above steps are significant but we remain keenly aware that even successful efforts cannot end the steep financial challenges most of our members face during this time. If you are in need, we encourage you to apply to the emergency relief funds listed below. If you are able to do so, please consider donating to these relief funds. The need has never been greater and every dollar helps.

As well, each of our organizations has created, and is updating, special COVID-19 internet resources with available guidelines, resources and support to assist you during this time of need. At the end of this communication, you will find links to the key sites.

We do not know when this national emergency will subside sufficiently to allow productions and other elements of the industry to begin opening back up for business. However, we do share a great faith that our industry will return with vigor and present abundant opportunities for our members to work and to reengage in the craft of delivering entertainment to audiences around the world.

Until such time arrives, we stand united as the industry’s guilds and unions to work on your behalf. We stand with you in this crisis, knowing that our solidarity is a core strength that will sustain all of us in the challenging days ahead.

In solidarity,

Ray Hair
International President, American Federation of Musicians

Thomas Schlamme
President, Directors Guild of America

Russell Hollander
National Executive Director, Directors Guild of America

Matthew Loeb
International President, International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees

James P. Hoffa
General President, International Brotherhood of Teamsters

Gabrielle Carteris
President, Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists

David P. White
National Executive Director, Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists

Beau Willimon
President, Writers Guild of America, East

Lowell Peterson
Executive Director, Writers Guild of America, East

COVID-19 RESOURCES:

American Federation of Musicians: https:/www.afm.org/covid-19/

Directors Guild of America:/The-Guild/Coronavirus-Resources-and-Updates

International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees: https:/www.iatse.net/coronavirus-update-portal

International Brotherhood of Teamsters: https:/teamster.org/covid-19

SAG-AFTRA: http:/www.sagaftra.org/covid19

Writers Guild of America East: https:/www.wgaeast.org/covid19/

FOR EMERGENCY FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE:

The Actors Fund: https:/actorsfund.org/services-and-programs/covid-19-resource-list

Directors Guild Foundation: https:/dga.org/Foundation

Motion Picture and Television Fund: https:/mptf.com/

SAG-AFTRA Foundation: https:/sagaftra.foundation/covid19relief

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April 16, 2020

A message from DGA President Thomas Schlamme and National Executive Director Russell Hollander

Dear Members:

First and foremost, we hope you and your loved ones are safe and healthy. As we've done periodically, we wanted to update you on the work we've been doing to keep us all protected – in the present and into the future.

A major concern we're hearing most right now is about when we'll be returning to work, and how we can be certain that it's safe to do so. Rest assured, this is something we've been spending a great deal of time thinking about as well. While we don't have an answer as to when production will resume, we are taking steps to address how we can be safe when it does happen. A National Board committee, spearheaded by Steven Soderbergh, and with members from all categories, has been appointed to do a thorough examination of the issues at hand, and to make recommendations to the Board. The committee is consulting with top epidemiologists in the field, and we will collaborate with our sister guilds and unions and the employers as we put together a comprehensive guide to help us all return safely to work.

And speaking of when we all go back to work, a second National Board committee has been appointed to focus on preserving the communal theatrical experience so that when it is safe to do so, your feature films intended to be seen on a big screen will have that opportunity. The committee, comprised of feature film directors, assistant directors and unit production managers will begin working now to examine ways to promote that safe return to theatrical exhibition that's so important for our culture and our art.

Simultaneous to our planning for tomorrow – we continue to act with tremendous urgency in the here and now to get members through today.

We know that health coverage is weighing heavy on your minds as production remains suspended. Which is why the DGA-Producer Pension and Health Plans trustees just unanimously voted to offer three months of premium-free COBRA coverage for participants losing eligibility July 1. They're also allowing the deferral of dependent premiums due at the beginning of April to July 1st. And as another stream of relief for members hurting financially, the Plans just announced they are temporarily allowing participants to take hardship loans from their Supplemental Benefit Plan. More information is available on the DGA Plans website: www.dgaplans.org.

These changes are in addition to all our ongoing work we've mentioned in prior letters. Those efforts include: keeping our members still working in news safe and protected; fighting for your compensation; fast-tracking residuals so that you can quickly benefit from this well-earned source of income; providing leniency on dues to those members who need it; building on our work with sister Guilds and unions for additional federal and state relief for our members; and expanding member aid through a new COVID-19 Emergency Relief Fund from the Directors Guild Foundation.

As we all keep focused on today and tomorrow, we hope we can also find some comfort and solace in our yesterdays. Both in having the backing and foundation of a Guild that's over 80 years strong – and also in knowing that our work done up to this point is keeping people entertained and engaged, and possibly even lifting some spirits the world over. That need isn't going anywhere. And when the time is right, we will go back to work, return to set, and do what we love…tell stories.

Until then, keep checking the coronavirus section of our website, accessible directly from our homepage at www.dga.org, for the latest developments.

We hope you continue to be safe as we continue our work fighting for you, navigating every decision with kindness and compassion.

Thomas Schlamme
President

Russell Hollander
National Executive Director

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April 14, 2020

DGA Plans Board of Trustees Approves Temporary Loans from Your Supplemental Benefit Plan Account Balance from May 1 to July 31, 2020

LOS ANGELES – To assist participants experiencing financial hardship during the unprecedented work stoppage during the COVID-19 crisis, the Board of Trustees of the Directors Guild of America - Producer Pension and Health Plans has unanimously voted to temporarily allow loans from the Supplemental Benefit Plan from May 1, 2020 to July 31, 2020. Click here to read more

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April 13, 2020

DGA Plans Board of Trustees Approves Three Months of Premium-Free COBRA Coverage for Health Plan Participants with Earned Active Coverage Terminating June 30, 2020

Recognizing the shutdown of production in mid-March due to the coronavirus outbreak will impact participants losing eligibility July 1, 2020, the Board of Trustees of the Directors Guild of America-Producer Pension and Health Plans has approved a three-month period of premium-free COBRA coverage to Health Plan participants whose earned active coverage terminates on June 30, 2020.

Participants losing earned active coverage on June 30th are eligible, provided the Health Plan is their primary plan.

Eligible Health Plan participants will automatically receive the three months of premium-free COBRA coverage, continuing at the same level as your current Health Plan coverage, with no additional action required. If you plan to continue COBRA coverage beyond the three-month premium-free period or if you would like your premium-free COBRA coverage at a level lower than your current coverage, you will need to indicate your preference by completing and returning the COBRA Election Form included in your open enrollment materials, due August 31, 2020. You should receive your open enrollment materials by mid-June.

For questions, please contact Participant Services at (323) 866-2200, Ext. 401.

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April 2, 2020

Directors Guild Foundation Launches COVID-19 Emergency Relief Fund for Members

LOS ANGELES – The Directors Guild Foundation (DGF) today announced the creation of the DGF COVID-19 Emergency Relief Fund to aid members facing financial crisis. With the coronavirus pandemic continuing to impact entertainment industry workers as film, television and commercial productions remain suspended indefinitely, the Trustees of the DGF voted unanimously to establish a separate COVID-19 relief fund. The new Fund will support members of the Directors Guild of America (DGA) affected by the shutdowns with $1,000 financial relief grants. The DGF COVID-19 Emergency Relief Fund grants will exist alongside the Foundation’s longstanding interest-free loan program that offers aid to members experiencing financial hardships and emergencies. Click here to read more

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March 27, 2020

DGA Statement on Passage of Expanded Coronavirus Relief Legislation Securing Access to Economic Support for Creative Workers

LOS ANGELES – Directors Guild of America President Thomas Schlamme made the following statement today upon Congress’s passage of a new coronavirus economic relief bill which includes provisions expanding access to economic support for creative workers. The expanded measures protect DGA members and other entertainment workers – whose freelance, project-to-project employment can make qualifying for unemployment benefits difficult – and ensure that benefits will be more generous given the wide-ranging suspension of film and television production. The expanded protections in the bill increase and extend unemployment benefits, send one-time direct payments to individuals and families, provide financial support to states, and establish the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance program for those who would not otherwise qualify for unemployment insurance.

“We applaud our allies in the House and the Senate for including provisions that provide access to vital lifelines, including unemployment benefits and direct cash payments, for our members and hundreds of thousands of creative workers whose unique working situations were a barrier to such critical relief. Lawmakers have heeded our urgent calls to address the needs of our members and others, everyday working men and women, who were so hard hit by the coronavirus crisis as film and television production shut down, including aid for those whose future projects were canceled.

“We thank Congressional leadership, and the lawmakers championing the critical work of our members whose films and television programs entertain billions of people around the world. This support will keep them protected and will allow them to come out strong on the other end when they’re able to continue work again. We urge the President to approve these protections, which will soon put much needed money in the hands of our members and their families.”

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March 25, 2020

Latest Information for Members from DGA President Thomas Schlamme and National Executive Director Russell Hollander

Dear Members:

As the coronavirus pandemic and its impact on our health, our work, our community and the overall economy continues to unfold, your Guild is working hard for you. With film, television and commercial production suspended for the time being, and our members in news working hard to keep the world informed – we have been in contact with so many of you who have shared what’s on your minds. While the situation continues to remain fluid, we know you are seeking certainty in a sea of unknowns. Your Guild is here for you to be that beacon as we continue to fight on the front lines. For your protection. For your rights. And for your peace of mind. Here are just a few of the ways we’re working to do that:

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ADVOCATING FOR YOUR RIGHTS TO BE PAID
Our contracts staff and field representatives have been working nonstop, connecting with hundreds of members about their individual work situations, and advocating on their behalf. They’ve been in constant contact with Studios, Networks and other employers, our sister guilds and unions, agents and entertainment lawyers. As part of that work, the major studios have committed to two weeks of pay to carry our below-the-line members impacted by production shutdowns, and we are in talks with other employers demanding they do the same or better. We are also working hard to secure relief for directors. For those of you who work in news, we are pushing the Networks and Local Stations to provide a safe workplace.

FAST-TRACKING RESIDUALS
In anticipation of the current “Stay at Home” order that’s been instituted, our Residuals department (and staff from other departments) worked around the clock and on weekends in advance of the order to fast-track thousands of residuals checks worth tens of millions of dollars so you would have this important source of income in your hands immediately. As additional checks are delivered, the team is continuing its incredible work to turn them around as quickly as possible.

FIGHTING FOR FEDERAL AND STATE AID
As our federal and state governments develop and pass legislation to assist America's workers who lose jobs due to the coronavirus pandemic, we continue our tireless work to make our voices heard loud and clear in Washington and at the state level. As freelance employees who may work for many different employers over the course of a year, we know some members may not fit the mold of the average worker for which most eligibility rules are drafted for governmental programs. Together with our sister guilds and unions, we’ve orchestrated a full court press on Congress and state governments to ensure economic relief is expanded, extended and made available to entertainment industry workers who might otherwise not be eligible. We’ve been leading the charge, reaching out to allies in Congress and at the state level to hammer home the importance of including entertainment industry workers in an economic relief bill. And we are so close to seeing tangible results. Hopefully by the time you get this, a bill will have been passed with measures expected to include expanded unemployment benefits and "pandemic unemployment" benefits to ensure that entertainment industry workers not eligible for traditional unemployment can receive comparable weekly benefits.

SETTING STAFF UP REMOTELY TO SUPPORT YOU
Also, in advance of the “Stay at Home” order, we began consulting with medical and other experts on how best to conduct our operations and implement social distancing policies while providing critical support for our members. We have equipped the DGA staff to work remotely. Our technology team worked diligently to get each individual up and running and to ensure the highest level of online security to get our staff linked into the critical Guild databases and systems they need to support our members.

HEALTH PLAN
In addition to the Guild, the Directors Guild-Producer Pension and Health Plans, which are a separate legal entity jointly administered by representatives of the DGA and Producers, has also been working hard for Plan participants. The Plan’s Board of Trustees has approved temporary changes to coverage in response to the evolving coronavirus pandemic. That includes the waiving of all patient cost sharing (i.e., co-pays, co-insurance and deductibles) for COVID-19 related testing effective immediately and continuing further notice, expanding coverage to include telemedicine/telepsychology visits until further notice, and per today’s announcement, allowing participants whose dependent premiums are due on April 1st to defer payment of dependent premiums until July 1st.

We know many of you are concerned and anxious about making your minimums. The Plans are in the process of preparing a newsletter that lays this out specifically. But we want to assure those of you whose current coverage expires on March 31st that if you’ve met your minimum earnings threshold ($35,000 in covered earnings) from January 2019 to December 2019 you are covered through March 31, 2021. To reiterate, even if you had no earnings in the first quarter of 2020, you are still protected for the next year. We know this can seem confusing, so if you don’t know when your coverage period begins or you’re concerned about the impact of the coronavirus on future eligibility, the Plans’ myPHP online benefits portal can provide you with up-to-date information on your eligibility and reporting earnings, or you can call the Plan’s eligibility department at (323) 866-2200 ext. 402.

Rest assured, the Trustees will continue to assess the impact of the coronavirus on our members and will consider appropriate temporary changes as they have been doing to date.

DUES
We are also aware that a number of you have raised concerns about your DGA dues. Quarterly dues reports will proceed as scheduled in April and members will be required to report their earnings. For members who cannot afford to pay their dues, we have made the decision to refrain from suspending members for non-payment of dues through July 1st, at which time we will assess the situation. But if you have the good fortune to be able to pay your dues at this time, please do. That money goes to help operate our Guild so we can continue to protect you throughout this pandemic. But again, if you find yourself experiencing hardship and cannot pay at this time, there is leniency.

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Again, please know that we are working hard on your behalf, and we are committed to keeping you informed. And please do not hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or need support. In the meantime, keep checking the coronavirus section of our website for the latest developments.

We hope you and your loved ones are safe.

Thomas Schlamme
President

Russell Hollander
National Executive Director

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March 19, 2020

The DGA, Together with Arts, Entertainment, and Media Unions Call on Policymakers to Protect Media Workers in Emergency Relief Packages

WASHINGTON, DC—With hundreds of thousands of creative professionals out of work as a result of the COVID-19 outbreak, arts, entertainment, and media unions affiliated with the Department for Professional Employees, AFL-CIO (DPE) are calling on the White House, Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin, and Congress to quickly pass emergency relief legislation that both enhances and expands state unemployment benefits and sends direct unrestrained cash to the impacted workers they represent.

“Arts, entertainment, and media workers have been hit hard by this public health and economic crisis. Overnight, production and performances industry-wide shut down indefinitely, leaving most entertainment and media workers without a source of income to cover essential expenses. Workers who are left without a paycheck and may not qualify for unemployment have no recourse unless Congress acts now. Elected officials have a moral responsibility to ensure emergency relief packages address these workers’ unique circumstances,” said DPE President Jennifer Dorning. “DPE affiliate unions representing arts, entertainment, and media professionals are committed to working with the federal government to provide economic relief during this long-term national crisis.”

Current state unemployment insurance benefits tend to be insufficient for arts and entertainment workers, and many will not be eligible for the paid leave expansion in the newly passed Families First Coronavirus Response Act.

“Creative professionals have unique work situations that prevent them from gaining much relief from state unemployment insurance programs,” said Dorning. “For workers in the arts and entertainment industries who are classified as employees, the benefits tend to be minimal. In a state like California, weekly benefits for creative professionals range from $40 to $450, which is not enough to weather this crisis – and far below what creative professionals would be earning if they could work.”

This week, the Families First Coronavirus Response Act was signed into law. The legislation provides relief to many workers across the country, but its paid sick leave and childcare leave provisions only apply to a limited number of still-employed arts, entertainment, and media professionals.

“We thank the President, Speaker Pelosi, Majority Leader McConnell and the rest of Congress for this much-needed first step in providing support to workers impacted by the COVID-19 public health crisis,” said Dorning. “We look forward to a future emergency relief package that applies to all affected Americans, including those who have been laid off.”

DPE and its affiliated arts, entertainment, and media unions are calling on the federal government to include the following in its future COVID-19 related emergency relief legislation:

• Provide states with dedicated funds to increase unemployment benefits and extend the number of eligible weeks beyond 26 weeks, similar to what was done during the 2008 recession.
• Access to unemployment benefits for the many creative professionals who rely on contract work, tipped jobs, or their own small business to supplement their income and earn a living.
• Continue enhancing the Unemployment Compensation system, including for those who lose expected work because their productions are shut down.
• Direct cash to affected workers and self-employed individuals that’s unrestricted, sent bi-weekly, and not tied to actual lost wages, work histories, or federal tax obligations.
• Direct cash plans that consider the number of children a worker has to care for.
• The benefit amount for direct cash plans should exceed $1,000 a month, due to the cost of living throughout the country. For example, in New York the estimated cost for a family of four is $6,976 and in Birmingham, Alabama the estimated monthly costs for a family of four is $3,434. Both figures are much higher than existing unemployment benefits provide.
• Enhancements to SNAP and WIC food programs.
• Provide paid sick leave, mortgage and rent payment relief, student loan payment waivers, credit reporting moratoriums, and childcare assistance.

The unions committing to advocacy effort include:

• Actors’ Equity Association
• American Federation of Musicians
• American Guild of Musical Artists
• American Guild of Variety Artists
• Directors Guild of America
• Guild of Italian American Artists
• International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees, Moving Picture Technicians, Artists and Allied Crafts
• International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers
• Office and Professional Employees International Union
• Screen Actors Guild – American Federation of Television and Radio Artists
• Stage Directors and Choreographers Society
• Writers Guild of America, East

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March 19, 2020

DGA HEALTH PLAN BOARD OF TRUSTEES APPROVES TEMPORARY COVERAGE OF TELEMEDICINE AND TELEPSYCHOLOGY IN ADDITION TO WAIVING COST SHARING FOR IN-NETWORK COVID-19 RELATED TESTING

Subject to DGA-Producer Health Plan rules and requirements below, all patient cost sharing (i.e., co-pays, co-insurance and deductibles) will be waived for in-network COVID-19 related testing through June 15, 2020, and telemedicine/telepsychology visits will be covered until further notice.

During this challenging and unprecedented time caused by the coronavirus outbreak, many physicians’ offices and therapists’ offices are not seeing patients in-person to prevent further spread of the virus. For the continued protection and safety of all Health Plan participants, the Board of Trustees has approved temporary changes to Health Plan coverage in response to the evolving coronavirus crisis. These changes take into account the importance of COVID-19 testing and related treatment, as well as the need for limiting in-person interactions and social gatherings to the extent possible, as recommended by health authorities.

TELEMEDICINE AND TELEPSYCHOLOGY VISITS (NETWORK AND NON-NETWORK) COVERED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE

For the protection and safety of all Health Plan participants in dealing with the COVID-19 outbreak, the Health Plan’s Board of Trustees has unanimously approved a Plan amendment that will temporarily provide coverage for both network and non-network telemedicine and telepsychology services. This means that, effective March 16, 2020 and until further notice, the Health Plan will cover office visits that can properly be conducted online with a licensed provider, as long as those visits and services would otherwise be covered under the terms of the Health Plan.

You may visit your network or non-network provider online or use Anthem’s LiveHealth Online network providers, subject to the Health Plan’s applicable deductibles and co-insurance rules. For further information, regarding Anthem’s telemedicine and telepsychology program, please visit www.livehealthonline.com, call 1-888-LiveHealth (548-3432) or email to help@livehealthonline.com. When emailing, make sure to include your name, email address and phone number where you can be reached.

All other Health Plan rules remain in effect, including but not limited to the exclusion of services that are not medically necessary, the exclusion of marriage, family or relationship counseling and/or therapy, and the exclusion for charges in excess of the Allowable Charge limit (meaning you will be responsible for any out-of-network charges above the Allowable Charge or Reasonable and Customary Charge limit).

Because this change is temporary, you will be notified when this special telemedicine benefit ends.

For more information about Anthem’s LiveHealth Online, go to our LiveHealth Online webpage.

COST SHARING WAIVED FOR COVID-19 RELATED TESTING THROUGH JUNE 15, 2020

Effective March 13, 2020, all patient cost sharing (i.e., co-pays, co-insurance and deductibles) will be waived for all in-network COVID-19 related testing through June 15, 2020 when administration of the test is (1) medically necessary, (2) ordered by a network provider and (3) performed at a network lab/facility.

COVID-19 testing via in-network telemedicine without cost sharing is effective March 16, 2020.

This includes patient cost sharing for office visits, telemedicine visits, urgent care centers and hospital emergency room visits for the purpose of COVID-19 testing. After June 15, 2020, the COVID-19 testing and associated visits will continue to be covered at the usual benefit level.

IF YOU HAVE ALREADY INCURRED A CLAIM

If you have already incurred a claim for services affected by the aforementioned Health Plan coverage changes, you may be eligible for reimbursement. We recommend that you reach out to the provider you received services from and ask that they submit a claim to Anthem on your behalf. If they are unable to do so, you will need to submit a claim form and copy of the itemized bill to Anthem. For more information on how to submit a claim, please go to our Filing a Claim webpage.

If you have questions, please reach out to the Participant Services Department at (323) 866-2200, Ext. 401.

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March 16, 2020

Coronavirus Update: Your Guild Is Here For You

MESSAGE FROM DGA PRESIDENT
THOMAS SCHLAMME & NATIONAL EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR RUSSELL HOLLANDER

Dear Members:

We know that so many of you are filled with anxiety about the unknowns of such an unprecedented, fluid situation – changing by the day, by the hour, by the minute. These feelings are everywhere. We understand. We get it. And that is why we are doing everything we can at the Guild for you, to reassure you, and to remind you how meaningful it is to be united. Especially at a time like this.

First and foremost, your health and safety continue to be our top priority. That’s hand-in-hand with our commitment to supporting you. As everything continues to change, we’re working hard on your behalf, and continuously re-evaluating how we adjust to meet your needs. Weeks ago, we appointed a multidisciplinary staff task force to actively monitor CDC, WHO, state and local guidance around the clock. To ensure keeping everyone safe, we have been consulting with medical and other experts on how best to conduct our operations and provide support for our members. Here’s a snapshot of that work, and important information we wanted to share with you.

QUESTIONS ABOUT YOUR EMPLOYMENT
Right now, leading medical authorities are advising that the most important way to prevent the spread of coronavirus is through social distancing, especially for the most vulnerable among us. For the film and television industry, this has led to many productions shutting down, and those that remain open taking additional steps to protect your health. We want to remind you that your Guild is here to protect you. We are, and will continue to be, in touch with the Studios, Networks and other employers about their plans and their obligations to you. As you’ve seen, most but not all productions have temporarily hit the pause button, which we fully support. If you continue to work, or if your production has been halted, and you have questions, please do not hesitate to call the Contracts line at (310) 289-2010, or email the DGA Contracts Department at Contracts@dga.org. If you communicate by email, please be sure to include the nature of your inquiry and your phone number, and you will receive a call back from an experienced Contracts team member.

IMMEDIATE FAST-TRACKING OF RESIDUAL PAYMENTS
Another way we are working for you is by implementing special procedures to fast-track all residual checks that are already at the Guild. The Residuals team, supported by staff from other departments throughout the Guild, worked around the clock to get thousands of checks in the mail immediately. As additional checks are delivered, we will continue turning them around as quickly as possible.

ADJUSTMENTS TO DGA OPERATIONS AS WE CONTINUE TO WORK FOR YOU
We are also concerned for the people we employ as a Guild. On the advice of our medical consultant, we have been hard at work implementing plans for our staff to work remotely beginning today. We will remain fully operational, and ask that you reach out to us by phone or email only, and refrain from visiting Guild offices in person. We are here for you, but please be patient as the volume of inquiries has increased considerably, and it may take a bit more time than usual to return your messages. Remember, we are all in this together.

FIGHTING FOR YOU IN WASHINGTON D.C.
We have also joined with our sister unions to call on Congress for financial relief for our members. As freelance employees, some of you may be particularly vulnerable to production shutdowns related to coronavirus. That’s why we’re pushing for legislation to provide economic relief to employees in the entertainment industry. We are working with a coalition of industry unions through the AFL-CIO Department for Professional Employees including IATSE, SAG-AFTRA, and Actors Equity – together with our allies in Congress.

DGA-PRODUCER HEALTH PLAN UPDATE & ADDITIONAL MEMBER RESOURCES
Given the importance of testing for coronavirus/COVID-19, the DGA-Producer Health Plan Board of Trustees has approved coverage of COVID-19-related testing and doctor visits for currently covered Health Plan participants. Effective immediately, all patient cost-shares (co-pays, co-insurance, deductibles) will be waived for all COVID-19 related testing through June 15, 2020 as long as it is: medically necessary; ordered by a network provider; and performed at a network lab/facility. This includes patient cost-shares for office visits, urgent care centers and hospital emergency room visits for the purpose of COVID-19 testing.

For more information, including tips on how to protect yourselves, your families, and your communities, visit the DGA Health Plan website at https:/www.dgaplans.org/blog-post/health-plan-announces-coverage-for-coronavirus-testing-and-related-doctor-visits-in-network-with-no-cost-sharing-through-june-15-2020/

For members who have other questions regarding their Pension and Health benefits, the Plans’ staff is available to assist you, and can be reached at Participant Services at 323-866-2200 extension 401; or toll free at (877) 866-2200.

For members who begin experiencing financial emergencies or hardship, there are resources available to you including the Directors Guild Foundation which offers confidential interest-free loans to members in need (email: Foundation@dga.org). Additionally, the Motion Picture Television Fund (MPTF) remains fully committed to its mission of helping the entertainment industry workforce, and is available to provide financial assistance and case management to those experiencing hardship related to coronavirus including production shutdowns, work slowdowns, layoffs or other issues. The MPTF can be reached at 323-634 3888.

WE WILL WEATHER THIS STORM TOGETHER
As the coronavirus situation evolves, your Guild is working overtime to help provide you with some stability in these difficult times. While the days ahead may seem cloudy, we should all be comforted in knowing that our work will continue to be highly in demand by billions around the globe. All of the creations you’ve worked on are so necessary to entertain, and will provide relief to so many. We are so proud to represent you.

And again, please know we are working hard on your behalf. Do not hesitate to reach out to us. We are here for you. And we will be responding to your needs. In the meantime, please keep checking the coronavirus section of our website (accessible directly from our homepage at www.dga.org), for the latest developments.

We hope you and your families remain safe.

Thomas Schlamme
President

Russell Hollander
National Executive Director

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March 12, 2020

Dear Members:

As we continue to monitor fast-developing state and local guidance in Los Angeles and New York related to the novel coronavirus (COVID-19), we have made the decision to cancel all DGA screenings, events, and Committee meetings. For the time being, Board and Council meetings will be considered on a case-by-case basis – and if they move forward, will be conducted in a restricted capacity with only Board or Council members, alternates and limited executive staff in attendance.

As mentioned in our previous communication, this is a dynamic and fast-changing situation. We will continue to monitor developments from relevant agencies, and provide updates as warranted.

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March 11, 2020

Dear Members:

The safety of our members, staff, guests and greater community is of paramount importance to the DGA. In recent weeks, as news of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) quickly developed, the Guild put in place a rapid response team to closely monitor and adopt the most up-to-date guidance and information as provided by the Centers for Disease Control, state and local agencies, medical experts, and the DGA-Producer Health Plan. The following provides information about some necessary changes the DGA is implementing across its operations in light of this serious issue, while also minimizing disruptions to Guild business and operations. As the situation is fast-evolving, additional changes may be implemented in the near-future, and we will continue to keep you informed through email and website communications.

Your Employment and Working Conditions

As always, your Guild is here to advocate for you. We’ve outreached to industry employers to be kept apprised of their production and safety plans and policies. It is expected that all productions and workplaces should incorporate the latest guidance from the CDC, state and local authorities in order to minimize the possibility of virus transmission. These currently include: policies to ensure employees stay home when sick or exposed to others who have the virus; and appropriate steps regarding travel to and from high-risk areas. Up-to-date CDC recommendations are available on the agency’s website at: https:/www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html

For members who have concerns about their employment and working conditions, we urge you to speak up, and immediately raise any concerns with your employer. The DGA is also a resource. Members can contact DGA Assistant Executive Director Steven Knauss at (310) 289-5326/SKnauss@dga.org or speak to their Field Representative, who can refer them to appropriate resources.

DGA Los Angeles and New York Operations

In light of cases of COVID-19 expanding throughout the U.S. and globally, the DGA has also implemented other protocols to help keep our home bases in New York and Los Angeles healthy, safe and operational:  

1. The Guild is monitoring daily guidance on group gatherings, has canceled non-critical meetings, and will limit or cancel future events as deemed necessary. The situation is quickly evolving, and we will continue to re-assess plans and communicate accordingly. Please check the Guild website at www.dga.org for ongoing updates.
2. The Guild has also implemented staff policies instituting the CDC, state and local recommendations described above, and adopted heightened building maintenance measures including additional janitorial staff for regular disinfecting of high-touch surfaces as well as conference rooms and theaters before and following meetings and screenings; ample availability of alcohol-based hand sanitizers and disinfectant wipes for workspaces; and new messenger and delivery protocols.
3. The following protocols have also been enacted for all individuals entering the DGA’s Los Angeles and New York buildings:

• If individuals come to the DGA and appear unwell, they will be asked to leave.
• Individuals who have traveled to the CDC’s list of Level 2 or 3 countries in the past 14 days are prohibited from entering the building at this time.
• If individuals have been exposed to someone sick with Coronavirus, or are exhibiting flu-like symptoms including fever, cough or shortness of breath, they are prohibited from entering the building at this time.

This is a dynamic and fast-changing situation. We will continue to monitor updates from relevant agencies, and will continue to provide updates as warranted. For additional information or updates on developments and recommended safety precautions, visit the websites for the CDC and World Health Organization.