Authorization of Representation

If workers on a non-union project seek union representation they can fill out this form.

Signatories are studios and production companies that have signed a standing agreement with the IATSE to meet certain minimum standards with regards to wages, hours, working conditions, and benefits for crew members.

Non-union productions with no signatory company attached are under no contractual obligations to meet any of these standards. The process of negotiating a signed agreement with a non-union production begins by having a majority of the crew in all covered IA crafts sign an “Authorization of Representation” that give Local 479 the authority to negotiate on their behalf.

This Authorization may come in the form of a hard-copy card, or an online form, but either way they are often referred to as “cards”. When a majority of signed cards have been gathered they are submitted to the producer along with a request that the producer enter into negotiations with the Local, typically conducted by the Local’s Business Agent and agents of the International.

If you are on a show that is currently in the process of collecting signed authorization cards, you may complete this form, which upon submission, will be sent to the Business Agent and/or Field Representatives of Local 479.

Authorization Cards are completely confidential. Your employer will never know whether you have signed one or not. In fact, it is illegal for them to ask you if you have. If a significant majority of the workers in the bargaining unit sign authorization cards we will file a petition with the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) requesting that they conduct a secret ballot election to determine whether a majority of workers want to be represented by the union in order to negotiate a contract.

This form is for people who are already working on a production and are requesting representation by IATSE Local 479.

I hereby authorize International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees, Moving Picture Technicians, Artists and Allied Crafts of the United States, its Territories and Canada to represent me for the purpose of collective bargaining with my above-named employer, and to negotiate and conclude all agreements respecting wages, hours and other terms and conditions of employment. I understand that this card can be used by the Union to obtain recognition from my employer without an election, and I hereby also apply for membership in the above-named Union.