On Monday, the Teamsters resumed negotiations with Hollywood studios for a new three-year Casting Agreement. This marks the bargaining unit's initial discussions with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers following the Casting Assistants' decision to join Teamsters Local 399 and 817 seeking representation. They are now united with Casting Directors and Associate Casting Directors, who have been part of the union since 2006.

One of the main goals is to set a minimum pay rate for Casting Directors, as their rates have traditionally been subject to individual negotiation. Additionally, the union aims to attain higher wage minimums for Associate Casting Directors. These priorities also extend to Casting Assistants, with an emphasis on incorporating them into all collective contract terms and implementing a yearly wage increase. Currently, the union consists of 91 casting assistants, with a projected growth of up to 200 members.

The existing casting deal is set to expire on September 30. Currently, only one week of negotiation has been planned between the Teamsters and the AMPTP, but there is ample time before the deadline to secure additional meeting dates if necessary.

Hollywood unions and guilds, such as SAG-AFTRA, the WGA, and the DGA, have shown their support for casting professionals. On Friday, before the beginning of negotiations, the unions called on the AMPTP to negotiate fairly, prioritize important issues, and recognize the importance of Casting Teamsters in their work.

The statement went on to mention that the Casting Department is essential to every production, and their efforts in past union and guild contract battles have been invaluable. The Hollywood unions and guilds fully support their quest for a just and balanced agreement.