On Thursday, October 16, the Local 802 Jazz Advisory Committee (JAC) met to address the union’s efforts to get pension contributions from NYC jazz clubs. A door tax forgiven by NY State in 2007 will provide the basis for pension contributions. In 2006-2007, the union collected over 200 signatures of prominent jazz musicians in support of the initiative.

Under the 802 plan, the forgiven 8.375% door tax, which is tacked on to the club’s admission fee, may be applied to pension contributions and also towards unpaid NY State Statutory Benefits, including worker’s compensation, unemployment insurance and disability insurance.

Club owners at 10 area venues: Birdland; Bluenote; Dizzy’s Club Coca Cola; Iridium; Jazz Standard; Kitano; Le Poisson Rouge; Smoke; Sweet Rhythm and the Village Vanguard, have received a letter from the union requesting a meeting on this issue.

If you perform in these clubs, and would like to receive pension for your work there, 802 urges you to contact these clubs and speak up on this vital issue.

To find out how you can help in this effort, contact 802 Jazz Rep Todd Weeks at [email hidden; JavaScript is required] or Bob Cranshaw at [email hidden; JavaScript is required].