((Automated translation by Reuters, please see disclaimer https://bit.ly/rtrsauto)) (Updates to latest developments)
Negotiations between the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA), which represents 45,000 port workers, and the employers group United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) appear to be deadlocked on wage issues ahead of a September 30 deadline for the conclusion of a new contractual agreement.
The union, which represents dockworkers at 36 ports on the US East Coast and the Gulf of Mexico, is threatening to strike on October 1. If its members stop work at ports between Maine and Texas, it will be the ILA’s first coast-wide strike since 1977. The affected ports handle more than half of maritime commerce and a widespread work stoppage would upend transportation schedules, delay goods for a wide range of industries and lead to higher shipping costs. All of this could translate into shortages and higher costs for consumers.
Here is a brief SURVEY of events leading up to the potential strike:
May 13, 2024
The ILA and USMX say they will begin negotiations after May 17 with the goal of reaching a new agreement before the current six-year contract expires on September 30.
June 10, 2024
ILA halts negotiations over automation disputes, after discovering terminals of operator APM and container shipping company Maersk Line were using an Auto Gate system that processes trucks without labor artwork.
June 11, 2024
The USMX says some issues will need further discussion between local parties, adding that it looks forward to re-engaging with the Transactions Committee.
July 12, 2024
Harold Daggett, ILA president and chief negotiator, says the threat of an Oct. 1 strike is growing after some USMX members violated his contract, prompting him to cancel the negotiations earlier.
August 23, 2024
The USMX says it has failed to secure a meeting with the ILA to resume negotiations.
September 5, 2024
Nearly 300 ILA delegates end their two-day meeting on pay scales by unanimously supporting President Daggett’s call for a strike on October 1 if a deal is not reached.
September 23, 2024
The ILA says it has had multiple conversations with the USMX in recent weeks and adds that the impasse continues over wages, with the employer group continuing to offer “an unacceptable set of wage increases.”
September 24, 2024 The White House says it will not try to negotiate a deal between the two sides.
September 25, 2024
Farm groups are urging the White House to act to avert a potential strike.
September 26, 2024 USMX files unfair labor practice complaint with National Labor Relations Board to bring ILA back to the negotiating table.
September 29, 2024
President Joe Biden says he has no plans to intervene to prevent a port strike.
