Bargaining Update

New York Times

On Dec. 6, 2017, employees of the New York Times, members of NewsGuild of New York, TNG-CWA Local 31003, ratified a four-year contract that provides wage increases and other benefit improvements.

The agreement, which covers much of the Times' newsroom and business staff, is in effect until March 30, 2021. Members will receive a 2.5% signing bonus and 2% raises on Jan. 1 and March 31, 2018. They will get additional 2% increases in 2019 and 2020.

For the first time, the Guild secured guaranteed medical coverage for up to one year for any member who is laid off. Additionally, the Guild's bargaining committee successfully negotiated that the Times will provide short- and long-term disability plans for members who need to take medical leave, as well as improvements in vacations and holidays.

"The negotiating committee worked incredibly hard," said Grant Glickson, president of the NewsGuild. "It was a tough fight. But I commend our committee and our membership for hanging in there and securing a contract during a time when union protections for media professionals across the nation are crucial for those working in this industry."

New York Times employees working in the video and audio departments also gained union representation.

"These past two years at the table have proven that union representation in the New York Times is necessary for our newsroom and for all of our staff," said Bill Baker, Guild member and Times unit chair. "Though we've negotiated and ratified our contract, our work doesn’t stop here."