Despite some news outlets pledging not to replace workers with AI, there have been instances of companies going back on their word, leading to unions pushing for protections against AI to be included in contracts. Management at several companies, including Gannett and Dow Jones, have reportedly refused to agree to these proposals. The unions are now discussing the issue with other unions and parent organizations. The language that is eventually agreed upon in these negotiations is expected to set the standard for other news unions in their negotiations with companies.
Key takeaways:
- Labor unions across various industries, including journalism, are increasingly concerned about the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on jobs and are seeking ways to protect their members from job loss due to AI.
- Unions representing journalists at major media outlets such as The Associated Press, The Wall Street Journal, and the Los Angeles Times have proposed contract language addressing AI. This includes the right to bargain over the effects of new technology on employees.
- Many unions are pushing for companies to commit to protections against AI by including them in contracts. This follows instances where companies have replaced staff with AI despite previous pledges not to do so.
- Despite these efforts, some companies have resisted agreeing to these proposals. For example, Gannett and Dow Jones have reserved the right to make unilateral decisions regarding AI, while the Associated Press has pushed for the ability to use AI to perform the work of people who have already left.