Sinclair says unions end representation for KOMO staff
- SAG-AFTRA ends representation for KOMO on-air staff after Aug. 24 vote
- IATSE Local 600 disclaims interest in representing photojournalists
- Both decisions follow employee-initiated decertification petitions
- Sinclair cites strong working relationships with workforce
*this image is generated using AI for illustrative purposes only.
Sinclair Inc. (NASDAQ: SBGI) confirmed that two labor unions have ended their representation of employees at KOMO 4 and KUNS in Seattle following recent votes.
Union Decertifications
The company announced on Aug. 24, 2026, that KOMO 4 on-air employees voted to end Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) representation. This decision followed a decertification petition filed with the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) in July.
On Aug. 27, 2026, Sinclair issued a statement regarding news photojournalists at the stations. The NLRB received notice on Aug. 18, 2026, that the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) Local 600 voluntarily disclaimed interest in continuing representation. This followed an employee-initiated petition and vote.
Company Response
Sinclair described the outcomes as a reflection of trust and strong working relationships with its workforce. The company emphasized its goal to be the employer of choice in every market it serves.
About Sinclair
Sinclair is a diversified media company and leading provider of local news and sports. It owns, operates, or provides services to 178 television stations in 79 markets affiliated with all major broadcast networks. Its portfolio includes Tennis Channel, multicast networks CHARGE, Comet, ROAR, and The Nest, and AMP Media.
How might the decertification of SAG-AFTRA and IATSE at KOMO 4 influence labor negotiations at other Sinclair-owned stations across its 79-market portfolio?
What potential cost savings or operational changes could Sinclair implement for on-air talent and photojournalists now that union contracts are no longer in effect?
Could this shift in labor relations impact the quality or volume of local news content produced by Sinclair's Seattle affiliates in the short term?
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