How NewsGuild Journalists Are Winning Strong AI Protections in the Newsroom

Guild Members Secure Strong AI Protections in Newsrooms

More than 36 collective bargaining agreements now include clear language addressing the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in newsrooms. These agreements focus on three key priorities: protecting bargaining unit work, defining the scope of AI use, and ensuring employee oversight and involvement in AI-generated work.

Why AI Protections Matter

Generative AI has advanced quickly over the past decade, and many employers have integrated it into their workflows without clear regulations. This has sometimes led to public backlash when AI-produced content was false or misleading. Since using AI to perform bargaining unit work affects job security and work quality, it is a mandatory subject for negotiation. However, employers often resist contract terms that place firm limits on AI’s role.

Union Actions and Successful Campaigns

Guild members have taken strong actions, including strikes and public campaigns, to secure protections. For example, the Politico PEN Guild launched the “Journalists, Not Robots” social media campaign. At Ziff Davis, overwhelming member support pushed management to accept strong contract language about AI.

Examples of Contract Protections

• The New Republic: AI may only be used as a complementary editorial tool, never as the primary creator. AI use cannot cause layoffs, fill vacancies, or reduce pay for Guild members.
• Many contracts include provisions for employee transfers with training or enhanced severance if AI reduces bargaining unit roles.
• Training on ethical AI use is often required, ensuring members understand how to comply with standards and avoid discipline.
• Some agreements mandate clear labeling of AI-generated content. Ziff Davis requires any AI-created or modified content to be marked as “AI-Generated Content,” including multimedia.

Ongoing Collaboration and Oversight

Because AI technology changes rapidly, many contracts establish joint committees of union and management representatives. These forums facilitate ongoing discussion and information sharing about AI’s impact. For example, after an eight-day strike, New York Times tech workers secured a contract requiring a committee to meet at least twice a year to review AI developments.

Looking Ahead

NewsGuild members have shown creativity in adapting contract language to their specific workplaces. While there is no one-size-fits-all solution for AI protections, sharing best practices strengthens future negotiations.

If you are a NewsGuild-CWA member or leader interested in learning more, you can join quarterly AI meetings and access member resources by contacting dnewsome@cwa-union.org.