AFTRA Applauds Oprah for Using Union Talent

AFTRA is applauding Oprah Winfrey and her Oprah & Friends XM satellite radio program for being the only XM show to sign a union contract with its on-air talent.

"The work of AFTRA members in Chicago to bring union standards to employment opportunities in satellite radio can serve as a model for all broadcasters working in this new service," AFTRA Executive Director Kim Roberts Hedgpeth said. "The new agreement outlines pay for program hosts and guests, health and retirement benefits, union security, grievance and arbitration, dues check-off, nondiscrimination, late penalties and the right to participate in pre-tax savings plans."

The agreement, covering nine hosts and one announcer, expires in August 2009.