If you’ve been
following the status of the American Federation of Musicians and Employers’
Pension Fund (AFM-EPF), you know it has been facing severe funding problems
since the Great Recession, despite earning relatively good investment returns
since then and receiving a significant contribution increase. As detailed more
below, however, these have not been enough to “right the ship.” As a result,
the trustees are preparing for a critical and declining certification in the
spring and an application to the Treasury Department under the 2014 federal law
known as “MPRA” for approval to reduce benefits to the extent necessary to
remain solvent for the next 30 years.
Now is the right time to become an American Federation of Musicians member. From ragtime to rap, from the early phonograph to today's digital recordings, the AFM has been there for its members. And now there are more benefits available to AFM members than ever before, including a multi-million dollar pension fund, excellent contract protection, instrument and travelers insurance, work referral programs and access to licensed booking agents to keep you working.
As an AFM member, you are part of a membership of more than 80,000 musicians. Experience has proven that collective activity on behalf of individuals with similar interests is the most effective way to achieve a goal. The AFM can negotiate agreements and administer contracts, procure valuable benefits and achieve legislative goals. A single musician has no such power.
The AFM has a proud history of managing change rather than being victimized by it. We find strength in adversity, and when the going gets tough, we get creative - all on your behalf.
Like the industry, the AFM is also changing and evolving, and its policies and programs will move in new directions dictated by its members. As a member, you will determine these directions through your interest and involvement. Your membership card will be your key to participation in governing your union, keeping it responsive to your needs and enabling it to serve you better. To become a member now, visit www.afm.org/join.
