Unions Will Merge to Consolidate Los Angeles Talent

IATSE Local 884 and Local 44 will unite operations by the end of 2026 to stabilize administrative resources.

Updated on Sept. 29, 2026 in Unions

Isometric editorial illustration depicting two office buildings next to interlocking mechanical components, symbolizing the union merger. — Members of IATSE Local 884 and Local 44 have approved a merger to consolidate administrative operations in Los Angeles by 2026. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Members of IATSE Local 884 and Local 44 have overwhelmingly approved a merger that will see the smaller union absorbed into the larger organization by the end of 2026. The move centralizes operations at the Local 44 headquarters in Valley Village to address long-standing operational challenges.

Why it matters

The merger aims to provide more stable representation for studio teachers, who previously relied on a smaller, volunteer-driven local. It reflects a broader effort to streamline union infrastructure amid significant downturns in total hours worked across the industry.

Local 44 represents nearly 7,000 members compared to the 106 members in Local 884. Industry data shows total hours worked by IATSE members fell to 78.9 million in 2025.

The players

IATSE Local 44

This established labor organization, chartered in 1939, currently represents nearly 7,000 members and will serve as the host for the merged operations.

IATSE Local 884

Chartered in 1960, this smaller union represents studio teachers and will be absorbed into Local 44 to overcome administrative limitations.

The details

Local 884 members will transition into Local 44, which will incorporate studio teacher representation into its executive board and delegation structures. The consolidation addresses Local 884s difficulty maintaining business operations due to its small size and dependence on volunteer labor.

Local 44 was chartered in 1939.
Local 884 was chartered in 1960.
Total work hours serve as a baseline comparison starting in 2022.
IATSE members worked 78.9 million hours in 2025.
The union merger is scheduled for completion by the end of 2026.

Political Context

This consolidation follows the pattern set by the 2022-2025 IATSE industry-wide work hours decline, which saw a 36 percent drop in labor demand. This trend forces smaller labor groups to merge to maintain viability against the backdrop of reduced production activity.

For union members, this shift means moving to a larger organization with dedicated administrative and executive board representation. The change aims to ensure consistent union services despite the recent contraction in total production hours across Los Angeles.

The takeaway

Smaller labor groups are increasingly consolidating to pool limited resources during periods of industry contraction. Members can expect a shift in organizational structure as the two locals finalize their integration over the coming year.