• by Ray Schultz , January 16, 2025

The New Republic staff has unanimously ratified a new three-year contract with the magazine, providing layoff protections and a boost in the salary floor, the NewsGuild of NY reports.

The deal also delivers a 19.97% raise for union members over the life of the contract.

In addition, it specifies that AI cannot be used in layoffs or to conduct bargaining unit work. And it prohibits management at the venerable magazine from replacing vacant bargaining unit positions with AI.  

“This contract sets a new standard for workers, especially on AI and its use in the workplace, as well as creating life-changing increases for the lowest paid in the newsroom,”  says Susan DeCarava, president of The NewsGuild of NY.

The agreement provides a rise in the salary floor from around $39,000 to $60,000 by the end of the contract.

In addition, parental leave is expanded from 16 to 20 weeks, and requires comp time and childcare expenses for employees who participate in events. 

The contract also supplies protections for remote workers, saying management cannot force people who live more than 25 miles away to return to the office. 

Also, three one-year fact-checker positions will be converted to full-time.  

“We are thrilled to ratify this contract because it truly represents the value we bring to The New Republic,” says Daniel Pritchett, director of engagement and a member of the union bargaining committee.