Overview

• AFM Local 802 opened a strike-authorization vote that runs through Oct. 12, empowering leaders to call a walkout if talks fail.
• Actors’ Equity has already authorized a strike, and a mediator is engaged as the union and the Broadway League hold scheduled talks Thursday.
• The congressional letter, signed by 31 lawmakers including Hakeem Jeffries and Mike Lawler, warns of significant economic fallout without a deal.
• Key sticking points include wage increases and health coverage, with Equity seeking roughly a 0.21% boost to producer contributions to its health fund, or about $4 million annually.
• The Broadway League notes the health fund also receives money from production grosses and points to rising costs, while an Equity strike could shut down dozens of shows and rehearsals, with some touring and nonprofit productions unaffected.