Writers’ strike cost $2.1 billion and 37,700 jobs

A study by the Milken Institute shows how last winters’ strike cost California $2.1 billion and caused 37,700 direct and indirect lost jobs. All in all, it had an enormous effect on the already difficult economy. “This was not a discrete one-time hit, [the strike] had a substantial impact on California’s economy in general and on Los Angeles County in particular,” the study stated.

It also pointed out how most fired workers didn’t get their job back after the strike ended in February. But other businesses were also squeezed. Caterers, cleaners and hotels for example, were all affected indirectly. The total Californian personal income is projected to drop $3 billion. And it won’t return to normal until next year.

That is, if there won’t be a second strike. “A SAG strike would have a devastating effect on the California economy because it would be occurring right at the point when we hope the economy begins to come out of recession,” one of the authors said. Well, let’s hope not. But I’m certainly not getting my hopes up.