Leaders of the Writers Guild of America sent out email messages asking members to authorize a strike if an agreement can't be reached. The union represents 12,000 screenwriters.
The email stated: "We are writing to request that WGA members vote to authorize the (union) to call a strike in the event that a fair and reasonable contract cannot be negotiated with the networks and studios."
Most the contention in the negotiations is centered around compensation for work that's distributed through new media outlets like the Internet and mobile devices.
With the existing contract expiring on October 31, the union can call for a strike anytime after that date.
Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP) President Nick Counter expressed frustration at the move, responding "WGA's leadership is pursuing this reckless strategy by misleading the membership about our proposals."
In case of a walkout, studios have been building up a number of scripts and quickly completing film and television productions in case a strike is called. They've also build up a financial war chest to cover expenses in case it happens.
The last time Hollywood screenwriters called a strike was in 1988.
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