Hollywood's biggest labor union, Screen Actors Guild and the American Federation of Television and Radio Artists, will merge its two healthcare plans to cover over 65,000 of its members, the Los Angeles Times reported.
SAG and AFTRA merged in 2012, but their healthcare plans remained separated until now. SAG-AFTRA leaders have long rallied for the merge, which permits union members to coalesce their covered earnings when purchasing plans.
SAG-AFTRA President Gabrielle Carteris told the LA Times the combined healthcare plan will erase obstacles that previously hindered union members to purchase healthcare, "making split earnings for performers a thing of the past."
The merge mirrors SAG's previous healthcare plan and includes two tiers of coverage, including family coverage for those who qualify. Mental health and substance abuse coverage is offered under both plans as well, according to the LA Times. Plan 1 requires $33,000 in earnings and Plan 2 requires $17,000 in earnings.
SAG-AFTRA represents nearly 160,000 actors, broadcasters and Hollywood entertainers.
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