AGMA COVID-19 RESOURCE PAGE – American Guild of Musical Artists

Published March 4, 2020 | By Musical Artists | Post in All Areas

Table of Contents

AGMA Relief Fund

Return to Stage and Performing Arts Playbook and Related Documents

Resources/Grants for AGMA Members

Unemployment/PUA Guidance

AGMA Health Plan and Retirement Fund

Announcements

9/15/2022 - Updated Guidance and Latest CDC Recs

Open the updated COVID-19 guidance here.

3/10/2022 - Two Years Later: Different, but Strong

It is hard to believe that we are approaching the two-year mark of the unofficial start of the pandemic in the United States. Continue Reading.

3/9/2022 - AGMA Releases Updated COVID-19 Guidance

Open the updated COVID-19 guidance here.

3/4/2022 - CA COVID-19 Rent Relief Fund Still Accepting Applications

The CA COVID-19 Rent Relief Fund is still accepting applications. The State of California has extended additional funds to help more income-eligible households impacted by a COVID-19 related hardship avoid eviction by helping pay their unpaid rent and utilities. Tenants and Landlords can apply here: Housingiskey.com or by calling 1-833-430-2122.

For additional eviction prevention information (in English and Spanish), please view: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/12IsdkmVroaSD7Y4GXXdsU6TfaZA7-bzd?usp=sharing

For rent relief application assistance, please contact racquel@homeownershipsf.org or call 415-799-4926, or info@homeownershipsf.org or call 415-202-5464.

2/16/2022 Creatives Rebuild New York Launches $125M Grant Program. Application Deadline: March 25

As reported in the New York times and various other outlets, Creatives Rebuild New York has launched a $125 million program that offers guaranteed income to 2,400 artists across New York State who can demonstrate financial need.

There are two options. One option would provide $1,000 a month for 18 months, no strings attached. The second option is for a $65,000-a-year job with a community-based organization or municipality.

Do you Qualify? Disciplines that fall within the application parameters include crafts, dance, design, film, literary arts, media arts, music, oral tradition, social practice, theater, performance art, traditional arts, visual arts, and interdisciplinary arts.

DEADLINE TO APPLY IS MARCH 25. https://www.creativesrebuildny.org/apply

Funding is being administered by the Tides Center and provided in large part by the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation, with assistance from the Stavros Niarchos Foundation and the Ford Foundation.

2/8/2022 New York State Announces Webinar Series on Workers' Compensation and COVID-19

Attention AGMA Artists who live and/OR work in New York! The Workers' Compensation Board is offering a new webinar series. Each one-hour session will provide information on workers' rights when it comes to filing a workers' compensation claim. Registration is not required and you can learn more at http://www.wcb.ny.gov/webinars/

2/7/2022 AGMA-SDC’s Expert Medical Advisory Panel Now Advising Actors’ Equity

Today, the Actors’ Equity Association announced their plans to join AGMA and SDC in seeking guidance from the AGMA/SDC Expert Medical Advisory Panel to keep their members working safely, too. Read more about this.

1/18/2022 FREE COVID-19 TESTS

As you have likely heard by now, the federal government has unveiled COVIDtests.gov. You can order a maximum of four FREE COVID-19 tests that will ship directly to you via this site. U.S. residents only. Your tests will usually ship in 7-12 days.

1/6/2022 Update on Omicron Guidance

Today, AGMA shares an update to the emergency guidance that we issued on December 21, 2021.

12/21/2021 Emergency Guidance on Omicron Surge

AGMA releases Emergency Guidance on Omicron Surge: read here.

12/17/2021 Preliminary Omicron Variant Statement

AGMA’s expert medical panel is evaluating the Omicron Variant and will release updated national guidance soon. Since the beginning of the pandemic, the health and safety of AGMA members have remained the Union's top priority.

12/14/2021 Information on 2022 AGMA Basic Annual Dues

Read this memo from AGMA here.

12/2/2021 Sign the Petition and Tell Congress to Support Tax Fairness for Arts Workers!

Learn more here.

11/11/2021 AGMA Releases Updated Guidances on Masking/Testing for Dancers

Open the guidance here.

10/13/2021 AGMA Dancers Caucus to Host Discussion on Return to Work with Industry Experts

The AGMA Dancers Caucus will host "A Biopsychosocial Look at Returning to the Studio" on Monday, November 1 at 8:00 p.m. ET. The discussion will be led by William Zinser, MS, ATC, CSCS, Athletic Trainer at NYU Langone’s Harkness Center for Dance Injuries. Continue reading.

10/13/2021 The Career Center at Actors Fund Announces Spotlight on Dancers

The Career Center at The Actors Fund for a Spotlight on Dancers webinar. “Moving Forward in 2021” will focus on return to work and the changes, adaptations in all arenas: education, production, performance, virtual platforms, festivals, travel/touring. Continue reading.

10/6/2021 AGMA Singers invited to Discussion on Maintaining Vocal Health Led by Industry Experts

The Opera and Concert Choristers Caucus (OCCC) invites all AGMA singers to a discussion on maintaining vocal health with TWO industry professionals on Monday, October 25 at 6:30 p.m. ET.

Join the multidisciplinary clinicians from the NYU Langone Voice Center, Dr. Paul Kwak (laryngologist) and Dr. Aaron Johnson (speech-language pathologist), as they discuss recommendations for maintaining vocal health and avoiding vocal injury as we return to performances as well as what to do when you are concerned about your vocal health. There will be plenty of time for Q&A. Continue reading.

9/28/2021 CHICAGO ARTISTS: Vaccine and Flu Shot Clinic October 5

AGMA has learned that the Chicago Federation of Labor, The Actors Fund, and Howard Brown Health have announced a vaccine and flu shot clinic. The clinic will be held on Tuesday, October 5 beginning at 1:00 p.m. CT at IBEW Local 134. Registration isn’t required but encouraged. Learn more here.

9/23/2021 AGMA Releases COVID-19 Guidance for Productions Involving Children Under 12

Open the guidance here.

9/2/2021 "US Artist Visas and International Travel in the Age of COVID: Latest Update" Webinar Hosted by OPERA America

In this free 75-minute webinar hosted by OPERA America, experts from Tamizdat and the hosts of ArtistsfromAbroad.org – the Association of Performing Arts Professionals and the League of American Orchestras – will describe what it takes to secure U.S. artist visas and navigate travel restrictions. The current and long-term policy environment means for seeking more equitable opportunities to support international cultural activity will also be covered. Register here. If the event is at capacity, you can still catch the recording.

8/19/2021 The Actors Fund Announces Support Group for Dancers/Choreographer

The Actors Fund has announced an 8-week virtual national support group for professional dancers and choreographers who are currently not performing due to injury or as a result of the abrupt halt in the performing industry. The weekly Tuesday meetings will start September 14 and run through November 2, 2021 - 5:30 pm ET / 4:30 pm CT / 2:30 pm PT. Any interested members should email dancersgroup@actorsfund.org.

The description is as follows, “Through open discussion and the sharing of resources, this group will provide a safe space for dancers to support one another through current challenges. As a program of The Dancers’ Resource, this group aims to address isolation and help dancers navigate the relationships with their bodies and the changing world of dance.” Continue reading.

8/12/2021 OPERA America Webinar to Focus on Care for Self and Others

As part of its free webinar series "Mental Health for Creators and Artists," OPERA America will host “Balancing Caregiving and Personal Care" on August 19 at 5:00 p.m. ET. Continue reading.

8/3/2021 AGMA Releases Guidance on Delta Variant

AGMA and our Expert Medical Advisory Board have issued a Guidance on COVID-19 Delta Variant for our members and signatory companies. Its purpose is to help our employers adjust their COVID-19 safety protocols to these new developments. This guidance was emailed to members and companies earlier today. Open Guidance.

7/28/2021 Upcoming OPERA America Webinar will Focus on Return to Work and Mental Health

As part of its free webinar series "Mental Health for Creators and Artists,” OPERA America will host " Mental Health Care in Professional Settings" on Thursday, August 5 at 5:00 p.m. ET. An excerpt of the webinar description is as follows: "When we work together in person again, how do we become our own best advocates for mental health? How can we deal with issues like imposter syndrome and navigating negative relationships in a professional environment?"

7/15/2021 OPERA America Webinar to Focus on Pandemic Trauma

As part of its free webinar series "Mental Health for Creators and Artists,” OPERA America will host the timely "Processing the Trauma of COVID-19" on July 22 at 5:00 p.m. ET.

6/10/2021 OPERA America Announces Mental Health Webinar Series

Licensed mental health professionals join opera industry professionals to provide insights, tools, and resources for prioritizing mental health during the pandemic and beyond. Each 45-minute session dives into a specific topic related to the unique mental health challenges experienced by those working in opera.

This five-part series is free and open to all; no registration is required. Links to the webinars will be available here.

5/24/2021 AGMA, SDC Release Special Guidance on Vaccinations and Testing

JUST ANNOUNCED! AGMA and the SDC have released a Special Guidance on Vaccinations and Testing to help employers of AGMA and SDC members balance the unique risks of COVID-19 to performing artists. Continue reading.

5/5/2021 Audition and Job Listing Page Updated on AGMA Website

Click here. The page will be updated as new information becomes available.

4/19/2021 NY Artists: The Actors Fund is Scheduling Vaccination Appointments

Members of the performing arts & entertainment community who are working, living, or attending school in New York City: The Actors Fund will help you schedule your COVID-19 vaccine appointment at ATC's Broadway Vaccination Site (ATC Vaccination Times Square, located at 47th Street & 7th Avenue). AGMA members do not have to be city or state residents as long as they can show a pay stub or office or school address in one of the five boroughs.

Call 917-281-5937 during regular business hours to speak with someone who can help you schedule an appointment. Visit actorsfund.org/BroadwayVaccination for more information.

4/18/2021 "VaccineFinder" Provided by the CDC

From CDC: VaccineFinder helps people find the latest information on COVID-19 vaccine availability at certain providers and pharmacies. Some information may be limited while more providers and pharmacies are added in the coming weeks.

VaccineFinder displays information about the provider:

types of COVID-19 vaccines available
website and phone number
and hours of operation
instructions on how to take the next step to get vaccinated.

4/7/2021 PRO Act FAQ

The PRO Act is the most important piece of worker empowerment legislation since the Great Depression. We want to make sure everyone understands what’s in the bill and why we need it. The PRO Act doesn’t stop anyone from doing freelance work. It protects freelancers’ rights to organize and collectively bargain if they choose to. Visit the FAQ Page.

4/1/2021 AGMA Memo to Companies: Vaccinations are a Mandatory Subject of Bargaining

On Thursday, April 1, AGMA sent the following memo entitled "Vaccinations: A Mandatory Subject of Bargaining" to its signatory companies.

3/12/2021 - One Year Later

AGMA reflects on the last unprecedented year. Read here.

3/2/2021 AGMA/SDC Release Version 4 of Return to Work Playbook

You can review the latest version of the AGMA/SDC Return to Stage and Performing Arts Playbook here.

2/28/2021 COVID-19 Report from Dr. Mark Cunningham-Hill

Dr. Mark Cunningham-Hill presented his COVID-19 report at the February Board of Governors meeting. The PowerPoint presentation can be viewed here.

2/3/2021 Pentacle NextSteps

NextSteps, a new Pentacle initiative, offers free administrative support to Artists, such as access to back-office resources and research data, downloadable templates, and instant one-on-one assistance through Live Chat. Learn more.

1/21/2021 Letter to President Biden and VP Harris from AGMA President: the Arts Need Funding NOW

"It has never been just about 'dinner and a show.' It is 'the United States Economy and a show,' as the Performing Arts in the U.S. intersects with and amplifies virtually every other facet of our economy." - Continue Reading.

1/15/2021 OPERA America Webinar "Reopening and Recovery"

You can now watch OEPRA America's latest webinar "Reopening and Recovery" on their website.

1/5/2021 AGMA State of the Union to be held on January 27

AGMA members are invited to attend a special AGMA State of the Union webinar on Wednesday, January 27, at 8:00 p.m. EST.

We will begin with a review of the many challenges and achievements of an extraordinarily difficult 2020, and then shift our focus to what we hope will be a brighter 2021. We hope you will join us and experience, firsthand, how AGMA has fought for you throughout the pandemic and how your union will continue to fight for you as the new year progresses.

Speakers include AGMA President Ray Menard, National Executive Director Len Egert, and the head of the AGMA/SDC Medical Panel, Dr. Mark Cunningham-Hill.

There will be time for questions at the end.

Registration is required. Members will receive a link to the webinar once their AGMA membership status has been verified. A recording of the webinar will be posted behind the MyAGMA portal for those who cannot attend live.

12/14/2020 COVID-19 Surge Special Guidance Document from AGMA

For reference, please review our “COVID-19 Surge Special Guidance,” a document from AGMA and SDC’s expert medical panel. Sent to all AGMA signatory companies on December 10, this document offers special guidance for our currently-working companies, because of the continued COVID-19 surge across the country.

11/19/2020 COVID-19 Safety Update to AGMA Members

Please read the latest AGMA update on COVID-19 safety here.

10/21/2020 AGMA Responds to Lyric Opera of Chicago Announcement

Following Lyric Opera of Chicago's announcement on the cancelation of its season, AGMA sent the following email to AGMA Artists of Lyric Opera of Chicago.

10/9/2020 Version 3 of the AGMA/SDC Return to Stage and Performing Arts Playbook

American Guild of Musical Artists (AGMA) and Stage Directors and Choreographers Society (SDC) have released the third version of the AGMA/SDC Return to Stage and Performing Arts Playbook

9/30/2020 Final AGMA/SDC Safety Webinar

If you missed the final installment of the AGMA/SDC webinar series, "COVID-19: A Collective Response," you can now watch the recording! On September 23, we presented "Return to Work Safely: Your Rights and Responsibilities."

To access the webinar, you must log into MyAGMA. From the MyAGMA dropdown menu, select: COVID-19: A Collective Response (webinar series)

9/25/2020 Artist Relief Grants Extended Through December

Creative professionals can receive $5,000 grants through the end of the year, thanks to additional funding by the Mellon Foundation and others. Apply or learn more.

9/16/2020 AGMA Delegate Appreciation Day

AGMA has instituted this new day to show our gratitude to our AGMA delegates, Committee Members, and other Artist Representatives who, year in and year out, do amazing work. This is especially true right now, during these stressful and uncertain days amid the pandemic. Watch video.

9/15/2020 Regarding Safety at Non-AGMA Companies

As you know, AGMA places no restriction on our members working non-union jobs. We understand that performing opportunities are extraordinarily scarce right now and that every job counts. t is our understanding that some AGMA members have been asked to sign waivers at non-AGMA companies. To be clear, these waivers are intended to protect the companies—not you, the Artists—in the event someone contracts COVID-19 at work. Please be aware that at this point AGMA advises its members not to sign COVID-19 waivers. However, should you move forward and sign a waiver in order to accept a non-union contract, we strongly recommend that you familiarize yourself with the COVID-19 safety guidelines in place, utilize the AGMA/SDC Playbook to help evaluate those guidelines, and make sure you are comfortable and feel protected. Continue reading.

9/11/2020 Government Assistance Programs

Here is a list of government assistance programs. Based on eligibility, these government assistance programs are available to complement what The Actors Fund and AGMA are able to provide.

9/9/2020 Upcoming COVID-19 AGMA/SDC Safety Webinars

Registration is still open for two upcoming "COVID-19: A Collective Response" webinars addressing the safe return to work for AGMA and SDC members. As a reminder, our team of medical experts are present at all webinars.

Wednesday, September 16, 4:00 p.m. EDT"Returning to Work Safely: Directors, Choreographers, Dance Masters, Associates, & Stage Managers." Register Here
Wednesday, September 23, 4:00 p.m. EDT"Returning to Work Safely: Your Rights and Responsibilities." Register Here

9/7/2020 Solidarity Forever Video

AGMA is honored to share this performance of Solidarity Forever (AGMA 2020 Version) featuring AGMA members of The Metropolitan Opera including Nathaniel Hunt, Ashley Emerson, Sarah Larsen, Christopher Job, and members of the Met Opera Chorus. Watch Performance.

9/3/2020 Regarding Columbia Artists Management Inc.

AGMA is aware that Columbia Artists Management Inc. ("CAMI"), one of the leading agencies representing classical music performers, recently announced that it is disbanding. Continue reading.

8/26/2020 AGMA/SDC Return to Stage and Performing Arts Playbook now available to download

The AGMA/SDC Return to Stage and Performing Arts Playbook helps to address the unique challenges of singing, dancing, stage managing, choreographing, and directing by outlining the layers of protection necessary to mitigate risks. View here.

8/12/2020 Miami-Dade Artists Support Program

The Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs is activating round two of the Miami-Dade Artists Support! (MAS!) Program, specifically for Artists. The program will provide up to $500 per Artist to those who have been negatively impacted by COVID-19.

8/11/2020 AGMA/SDC Return to Stage and Performing Arts Playbook

For information on how to access this playbook visit here.

8/7/2020 AGMA and SDC Announce Upcoming COVID-19 Safety Webinars

AGMA and SDC are presenting "COVID-19: A Collective Response", a series of webinars addressing the safe return to work for our members. To review the dates and topics of our upcoming webinars that will address issues unique to specific disciplines, click here.

8/2/2020 Mental Health and Suicide Prevention

In response to the concern about the rising number of suicides and the prevalence of alcohol/substance misuse within the entertainment industry, Behind the Scenes and other individuals and organizations have come together to create this initiative. Read more.

7/21/2020 AGMA Letter to Companies Regarding Reopening and Safety

On Tuesday, July 21, 2020, AGMA sent the following memo to its signatory companies: continue reading.

7/21/2020 Rent Relief Programs by State

States are announcing rent relief programs to assist individuals and families impacted by COVID-19. Visit this site to find your state.

7/16/2020 NY Traditional Unemployment Payments Extended to 59 Weeks

Just announced. UNFORTUNATELY - Artists receiving Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (not "traditional" UI) are NOT currently eligible for the extension but are eligible for up to 46 wks of benefits, according to this fact sheet.

7/16/2020 New York State COVID Rent Relief Program

The application is open to New Yorkers starting today.

The COVID Rent Relief Program will provide eligible households with a one-time rental subsidy that will be sent directly to the household’s landlord. Applicants will not need to repay this assistance. The COVID Rent Relief Program is not first-come, first-served. Applications will be accepted throughout the two-week application period. HCR will prioritize eligible households with “greatest economic and social need” accounting for income, rent burden, percent of income lost, and risk of homelessness.

The rental assistance payment will cover the difference between the household’s rent burden on March 1, 2020, and the increase in rent burden for the months the households are applying for assistance. Households can apply for up to four months in rental assistance. To find out if you are ELIGIBLE and to begin the application process, visit here.

7/15/2020 CALL TO ACTION!

The Senate has gone on an extended recess. They are not due to return to the Capitol until Monday, July 20, shortly before the extra $600 a week in UI - known as Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation (FPUC) - along with other enhanced benefits, are set to expire. The Senate must act NOW. Contact your Senators while they are home and tell them to support critical pieces of the Heroes Act. SEND A LETTER.

7/6/2020 PPP Extended Until August 8

The Paycheck Protection Program resumed accepting applications July 6, 2020, at 9:00 AM EDT in response to the Paycheck Protection Program Extension Act. The new deadline to apply for a Paycheck Protection Program loan is August 8, 2020. Learn more.

6/25/2020 SBA Opens Up New Grants and Loans

The SBA announced that it was again opening up its Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) grant and loan program. This means that independent contractors, freelancers, and gig workers are eligible to receive a $1,000 grant that does not have to be repaid. Learn more.

6/18/2020 AGMA Newsletter

This is the first in a series of AGMA newsletters.

6/8/2020 AGMA Call to Action

On Tuesday, June 9, the Senate will begin discussions on whether to extend the enhanced unemployment benefits past July 31, when they are currently set to expire. This includes whether or not the extra $600 per week in UI keeps going after July. We encourage you to write to your Senator TODAY. Encourage them to demand the renewal of the enhanced unemployment benefits for all workers, including those of us in the Performing Arts industry, in any future relief legislation.

6/2/2020 AGMA and SDC Engage Medical Experts on COVID-19, Reopening

With discussions on reopening beginning around the country across various industries, the American Guild of Musical Artists (AGMA) and Stage Directors and Choreographers Society (SDC) announced that they have engaged the services of medical experts to assist with COVID-19 safety planning and ensure that their members are protected.

5/22/2020 AGMA letter to companies regarding reopening

Read the letter here.

5/15/2020 AGMA Signs Joint Letter to Congress

AGMA, alongside nearly 50 other entertainment industry unions and organizations, sent a joint letter to Congress. The letter, addressed directly to Speaker Pelosi, Leader McConnell, Leader McCarthy, and Leader Schumer, summarizes the ways the CARES Act has fallen short in assisting members of the entertainment community and requests that these shortcomings be remedied in an updated CARES Act COVID-19 relief package. Read the letter here.

5/15/2020 IADMS Launches Helping Dancers Help Themselves

IADMS has begun a new initiative Helping Dancers Help Themselves. This range of programming is to offer support, information, and community to dancers, dance educators, researchers, and medical professionals during COVID-19. The programming includes panel discussions and FREE WEBINARS on mental health, safe dance practice, and more.

5/11/2020 NYC Comptroller COVID-19 Resource Page

New York City Comptroller Scott Stringer launched the COVID-19 Resource Center. AGMA Relief Fund, among other grants, are listed under "Independent Contractors and Freelancers."

5/8/2020 "Support Performing Artists Industry Workers" Petition

AGMA's Terry Ganley and Paula Suozzi have created a petition supporting extending the extra unemployment benefits for industry workers. Consider signing and sharing.

4/29/2020 Union Plus IMPORTANT Update

Union Plus has increased their benefits and loosened some of the requirements in an effort to better serve union members during these difficult times. Read more.

4/29/2020 Updated DOL Guidance on Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA)

This updated information was issued 4/28/2020. Read here.

4/29/2020 Updated AEMI Flowchart

This is an updated AEMI-branded flowchart of government support for creative professionals impacted by COVID-19. The flowchart's updates reflect how states are implementing the UI/PUA provisions included in the CARES Act.

4/25/2020 Official Document from AGMA Retirement Fund on Emergency Loans and Withdrawals

Read document here. Email info@agmafunds.org for more information.

4/23/2020 AGMA Retirement Fund Approves Individual Emergency Loans and Withdrawals

Effective May 1. Read full statement here.

4/20/2020 Streamlined Application for New Yorkers to Apply for Pandemic Unemployment

The New York State Department of Labor announced the launch of a new application for New Yorkers to apply for traditional Unemployment Insurance or the new COVID-19 Pandemic Unemployment Assistance. This one-stop-shop for unemployment benefits will connect New Yorkers with the benefits, without requiring them to call the Department of Labor.

4/13/2020 Pandemic Unemployment Assistance Guidance from the Department of Labor

Guidance on implementing the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance program
Guidance on Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation

4/13/2020 Calling AGMA Membership Department

Due to the current crisis, our lines are busier than ever. Having difficulty reaching the AGMA membership department? Email Candace at membership@musicalartists.org.

4/10/2020 COVID-19 Arts Aid PHL Fund

The Greater Philadelphia Cultural Alliance partnered with the City of Philadelphia’s Office of Arts, Culture and the Creative Economy (OACCE) and the Philadelphia Cultural Fund (PCF) to support Philadelphia region artists and arts organizations impacted by COVID-19. According to the announcement: the COVID-19 Arts Aid PHL Fund will support individual artists and small arts and culture organizations (annual budgets no greater than $250,000) and mid-sized organizations (annual budgets between $250,000 - $15M) whose operations, work and livelihood have been deeply affected by the pandemic. Applications will open in the upcoming weeks, with priority given to individual artists and small organizations, where the need for support is particularly urgent.

4/8/2020 Artist Relief $5,000 Grants

Artists living in all 50 states, territories, and Tribal Nations, working in any discipline, are able to apply for the $5,000 grant. Applicants must be 21+, able to receive taxable income in the United States regardless of their citizenship status, and have generally lived and worked in the United States for the last two years. Due to expected demand, it will not be able to fund every applicant. (Artist Relief is an initiative organized by the Academy of American Poets, Artadia, Creative Capital, Foundation for Contemporary Arts, MAP Fund, National YoungArts Foundation, and United States Artists)

4/7/2020 Health Mask Policy Video

Now that the CDC has recommended wearing masks when out in public, here is a video from UNC Healthcare, where they are reusing masks to conserve supply.

4/6/2020 Unemployment & Pandemic Unemployment Assistance Updates

This page from the Department of Labor provides a phone number and website for every state's unemployment office. It also includes guidance, fact sheets, and news releases related to the COVID-19 UI programs.

The latest guidance is on the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance program is available here.

4/6/2020 The Families First Coronavirus Response Act Update

These provisions will apply from April 1, 2020 through December 31, 2020. The Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA or Act) requires certain employers to provide their employees with paid sick leave and expanded family and medical leave for specified reasons related to COVID-19. Read more.

4/3/2020 AFL-CIO Unemployment Resources Broken Down by State

Select your state HERE to find unemployment insurance benefit resources and related information for workers impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

4/1/2020 Reinstatement Fee Reduced Through June 30

Suspended AGMA members are eligible for the reduced reinstatement fee as long as they were in good standing through 12/31/2019. Read More.

3/27/2020 CARES Act

The House passed the CARES Act by voice vote and the President signed the bill into law. AGMA played an important part in the advocacy for this bill, working with the Department for Professional Employees (DPE) and our sister unions to demand COVID-19 relief benefits for our members. READ MORE.

3/23/2020 Dance Artists National Collective Comprehensive Resources

Dance Artists National Collective has collected a great deal of resources. We encourage AGMA members to review their page.

3/20/2020 Arts, Entertainment, and Media Unions Call on Policymakers to Protect Media Workers in Emergency Relief Packages

Read full statement here.

UPDATED 3/20/2020 Union Plus Member Resources

Any Union Plus members can find a list of benefits available to workers through various Union Plus programs, as well as its updated "When the Paycheck Stops" manual, which provides information on surviving unemployment and includes a link to its labor liaison network and labor agencies.

Important AGMA updates to Visa process

Important changes to AGMA's visa process have been announced. Read more.

AGMA Relief Fund

COVID-19 & AGMA RELIEF FUND: How to help fellow AGMA members in need, or how to receive assistance:

Announced 3/19/2020: To best serve artists, the AGMA Relief Fund application process has moved completely online, making the process more seamless and efficient. Any AGMA members who have already applied for financial assistance do not need to apply again.

Begin Application Process

Before you begin, make sure you have:

A copy of your current membership card or confirmation by Union membership department (email membership@musicalartists.org and put "Proof of Membership" in subject line) – including end date (you must be current through December 2020)
Most recent bank statement (not printout from ATM)
Current lease or mortgage/maintenance

AGMA is aware of the major effects resonating in the performance sector regarding the COVID-19 (coronavirus) outbreak. We are deeply saddened that it is resulting in loss of work and money due to theatre closures and travel restrictions. We know that many of our artists, especially soloists, travel extensively and have been affected by this crisis. We want to let you know that we are monitoring the spread of the coronavirus and are doing what we can to prepare for its potential impact on our industries. AGMA is having the appropriate conversations with our employers on how we can maintain business continuity, and related issues if an outbreak becomes more severe.

Any AGMA member in good standing is entitled and encouraged to apply for financial assistance through the AGMA Relief Fund. Please visit agmarelief.org to begin the application process. Grants are awarded on a case-by-case basis, based on need.

The AGMA Relief Fund depends on the generosity of many to assist our members in need. If you would like to donate, please click the PayPal button below, or contact AGMA directly. Please note in the memo/note field, or over the phone, that your donation is to benefit those affected by the coronavirus.* 95% percent of funds go directly to financial aid for AGMA colleagues in times of crisis.

Make an Online Donation

Send Checks to:

AGMA Relief Fund

P.O. Box 908

New York, NY 10018

Wire Transfers to AGMA Relief Fund

Information for wire transfer to AGMA Relief Fund from outside USA:

Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas
BIC : BKTRUS33
A/c# 42938566
I/N/O:AGMA Relief Fund

Information for wire transfer to AGMA from within USA:

Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas
ABA#021001033
A/c# 42938566
I/N/O AGMA Relief Fund

Deutsche Bank address:

Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas
60 Wall Street 14th Floor
New York, NY 10005

Please mention your name in wire transfer information in order to get proper credit.

Send Checks to:

P.O. Box 908

New York, NY 10108

The AGMA Relief Fund is a not-for-profit 501 (c) (3) charitable organization, administered by The Actors Fund. All contributions are tax-deductible.

External Resources for AGMA Members - Updated 2/16/2022

Resource	Type
The Actors Fund: -VACCINE APPOINTMENTS (NY Only) -Virtual Workshops -The Career Center -Financial Wellness -Health & Health Insurance -Housing -Social Services -Mental Health services	AGMA contracts with The Actors Fund to administer the Relief Fund as well as to provide comprehensive social services.
AEMI Flowchart	An updated AEMI-branded flowchart of government support for creative professionals impacted by COVID-19. The flowchart's updates reflect how states are implementing the UI/PUA provisions included in the CARES Act.
AFL-CIO COVID-19 Resource Page	Resource page, updated daily.
Artist Relief	Artist Relief will distribute $5,000 grants to artists facing dire financial emergencies due to COVID-19.
Artist Relief Tree	Artist Relief Tree is a new fund created to financially support artists who are affected by cancellations due to COVID-19.
Behind the Scenes Charity	In response to the concern about the rising number of suicides and the prevalence of alcohol/substance misuse within the entertainment industry, Behind the Scenes and other individuals and organizations have come together to create this initiative.
COVID-19 & Freelance Artists	This list is specifically designed to serve freelance artists, and those interested in supporting the independent artist community.
Creative Capital Resources	Open to artists working in all disciplines, as well as arts philanthropists, and arts professionals.
Creatives Rebuild NY	Open to NY Artists in need. Deadline March 25, 2022.
Dance Artists National Collective	Dance Artists National Collective has collected a great deal of resources. We encourage AGMA members to review their page.
The Department of Labor: -Guidance on implementing the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance program -Guidance on Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation	Information on applying for unemployment and Pandemic Unemployment Assistance.
Freelancers Union	NOTE from Freelancers Union: Applications have been temporarily closed due to the overwhelming response we have received from our community. We will send an update to members when we are able to reopen application submissions.
I Care If You Listen Resources	"Round-up of as many emergency funding sources and additional resources for artists as we can find."
IADMS	"Helping Dancers Help Themselves" provides free mental health resources
Miami-Dade Supporting Artists Program	The Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs is activating round two of the Miami-Dade Artists Support! (MAS!) Program, specifically for Artists. The program will provide up to $500 per Artist to those who have been negatively impacted by COVID-19.
New York Resources: -NYS streamlines PUA application process -NY government resources -COVID Rent Relief Program	Added 7/16/2020 - COVID Rent Relief Program for New York State
Opera America	Get current information on the coronavirus outbreak, nonprofit response, relief options, and advocacy efforts.
Payment Protection Program	The Paycheck Protection Program resumed accepting applications July 6, 2020, at 9:00 AM EDT in response to the Paycheck Protection Program Extension Act. The new deadline to apply for a Paycheck Protection Program loan is August 8, 2020.
Pentacle NextSteps	NextSteps, a new Pentacle initiative, offers free administrative support to Artists, such as access to back-office resources and research data, downloadable templates, and instant one-on-one assistance through Live Chat!
SBA	SBA announced that it was again opening up its Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) grant and loan program. This means that independent contractors, freelancers, and gig workers are eligible to receive a $1,000 grant that does not have to be repaid.
Union Plus: -Hardship Program -Bachelor’s Degree Completion Program	Union Plus is here to help union members through times of uncertainty with unique Hardship Help benefits. Find out if you're eligible for these Union Plus programs.

YOUR LOCAL HEALTH DEPARTMENT

Coordination with federal, state, and local health officials is strongly encouraged for all businesses so that timely and accurate information can guide appropriate responses in each location where their operations reside. Since the intensity of an outbreak may differ according to geographic location, local health officials will be issuing guidance specific to their communities.

For your information below are some key local health departments’ coronavirus pages.