East Coast and Gulf Port Workers Threaten Strike on October 1
The International Longshoremen's Association demands better wages and protections against automation, risking significant economic impact.
- The International Longshoremen's Association (ILA) represents 45,000 workers at 36 ports, including major hubs like New York, New Jersey, Houston, and Savannah.
- ILA workers are prepared to strike if a new labor agreement with the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) is not reached by September 30.
- A strike could disrupt nearly half of U.S. ports, affecting billions of dollars in trade and causing significant economic losses estimated at $3.7 billion per day.
- Retailers and manufacturers are rerouting cargo to West Coast ports in anticipation of potential disruptions, leading to record activity in ports like Long Beach and Los Angeles.
- The Biden administration has stated it will not invoke the Taft-Hartley Act to prevent the strike and urges both parties to continue negotiations.