"Central Casting has not charged its background actors any improper photograph fees," the company said. "The government's references to the California talent service laws are misplaced. As an employer of background actors, Central is not covered by these laws."
Citing the 2009 Krekorian Talent Scam Prevention Act, officials told Central Casting that the company risked prosecution on civil charges if it failed to stop charging photo-registration fees within 10 days.
Central Casting's argument that it is an employer rather than a representation service and thus not subject to regulation under the Krekorian Act could have negative consequences for the company should prosecutors press charges. Deputy City Attorney Mark Lambert told Back Stage on Tuesday that if his office determined that Central is an employer instead of—or in addition to—a representation service, it could be subject to criminal counts. However, Lambert also said that his office was unlikely to prosecute if the practice were ended.
The American Federation of Television and Radio Artists voiced support Wednesday for the government's actions. "AFTRA applauds the Los Angeles City Attorney's Office for its action yesterday in upholding California state labor law protecting the public, and specifically AFTRA background actors, from unfair, unlawful, and deceptive business practices," union spokesperson Chris de Haan said. "AFTRA members actively supported the 2009 passage of A.B. 1319," the Krekorian Act.
Screen Actors Guild executive director David White on Tuesday praised the government action, saying that the move addressed "a persistent area of concern" for guild members. Terri Becherer, director of SAG's National Background Actors Department, reiterated that support.
"Screen Actors Guild does not feel like anyone should ever have to pay anything for the opportunity to apply for work," she said. "We are thrilled that there are laws out there to protect actors, and that the city attorney is going to pursue those who are not following the laws."