IATSE ratifies three-year contract

Variety: The West Coast members of the Intl. Alliance of Theatrical Employees -- Hollywood's key below-the-line union -- have ratified a new three-year master contract. The new deal, which was negotiated in March and April with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Prodicers, includes a 2% annual wage hike along with $250 million in new employer contributions to the health plan via a 20% increase. It goes into effect on Aug. 1.