XM Satellite Radio's flagship women's channel, Oprah & Friends (ch 156), has entered into an agreement with American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (AFTRA) for the nine hosts and one announcer on the channel.

AFTRA is a performer's union that represents personalities in radio and television, similar to the Screen Actors Guild (SAG).

"This ground-breaking agreement is the first contract that provides union salaries, benefits, and working conditions for talent on a program only carried by satellite radio," said Eileen Willenborg, AFTRA Chicago Local Executive Director. "I commend the producers at 'Oprah & Friends' for working together with AFTRA members to create a sensible and responsible agreement."

The deal covers compensation and benefits with provisions on union security, grievance and arbitration, dues check-off, non-discrimination, late penalties, and the right to participate in pre-tax savings plans. The contract is retroactive from January 1, 2007 and runs through August 31, 2009.

[AllAccess]