Equity in the News

NEW YORK CITY (WABC) -- The $2 trillion stimulus bill passed by the Senate amid the coronavirus pandemic includes a boost in unemployment pay, but a key provision of the bill covers those with a firm promise of employment, and that is expected to help Broadway, which went dark two weeks ago.

Actors’ Equity, the union representing actors and stage managers in live theater, is praising the $2 trillion Senate bill for the expansion of access to unemployment benefits that the bill will afford to arts and entertainment workers. The bill, which gives unemployed workers an extra $600 a week on top of their regular state benefits for four months — and $1,200 to most tax-payers — is expected to be approved by the House shortly.

As hundreds of thousands of people today in New York City endure from the coronavirus and its devastating economic results, one particular of the hardest-hit places has been the legendary Terrific White Way.

Some smaller arts institutions may not survive the economic effects of prolonged closures as the COVID-19 pandemic continues to worsen.

The city’s restaurants and performing arts are why tourists flock to New York — but thanks to the coronavirus, those industries are bracing for a long haul of nothing.

As millions of people in New York City suffer from the coronavirus and its devastating economic effects, one of the hardest-hit places has been the legendary Great White Way.

The government’s $2 trillion stimulus package includes provisions that should help unemployed actors and other members of the theater community.

WASHINGTON —  The economic relief bill Congress is expected to approve this week would provide $1,200 direct payments to many American adults, expand eligibility for unemployment benefits to include actors and gig workers and provide funding for states.

The text of the massive, $2 trillion coronavirus relief package has just been released, in advance of expected Senate passage on Wednesday.

The union will contribute $500,000 and match another $250,000 in contributions, to support members at risk due to work cancellations in the effort to contain COVID-19.