Workers at ProPublica, a U.S. nonprofit independent newsroom, launched a 24-hour strike demanding job security as AI adoption spreads. They are seeking protections against AI-driven layoffs and want management to consult employees before implementing AI systems.
The ProPublica union staged the 24-hour work stoppage on April 8 (local time). ProPublica recently published AI guidelines stating, for example, “Articles written with AI assistance will be reviewed by reporters before publication” and “We will disclose to readers when AI was used.” The union filed a complaint on April 6, saying management failed to consult staff before releasing the guidelines, and subsequently called the strike.
The union is pressing management for stronger job guarantees. According to The New York Times on April 8, the ProPublica union—representing 150 employees, including reporters, editors and communications staff—has demanded worker input on AI adoption and protections against AI-related layoffs. A union official told the Times, “More than 100 employees stopping work for 24 hours sends a strong message,” adding, “We want to return to work, but only after fair negotiations.”
The Times noted that many news organizations face similar AI-related challenges and that unionized newsrooms are adding contract provisions to prevent job displacement by AI and to ensure safe AI use. On April 7, the Associated Press offered voluntary buyouts aimed at reducing its newsroom headcount by 5%; the AP union criticized management for shedding experienced staff while prioritizing investment in AI. AP signed an agreement in 2023 allowing OpenAI to train on its content and supplied news to Google’s Gemini last year.
Poynter reported on April 8 that the union is asking employers to protect employees’ seniority because layoffs have become more likely in AI-driven industries. The union also demands that employers provide legitimate reasons when terminating staff—a basic safeguard against unjust dismissals or arbitrary discipline. “Negotiations are ongoing, and the union has not ruled out additional strikes,” Poynter wrote.
ProPublica told Poynter, “We cannot yet be certain how AI will affect our work. It would be inappropriate to promise things we cannot keep,” and said it is exploring ways AI might produce in-depth, creative results. The organization added that it is focused on negotiating a collective bargaining agreement to solidify pay and benefits.
