MLS Referees Authorize Potential Strike Amid CBA Negotiations

Unanimous vote by the Professional Soccer Referees Association could jeopardize the start of the MLS season, with the first match featuring Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami.

• The Professional Soccer Referees Association (PSRA) has unanimously voted to authorize a potential strike amid ongoing negotiations with the Professional Referees Organization (PRO) over a new collective bargaining agreement (CBA).
• The previous CBA expired on January 15, but was extended until January 31. A lockout or strike could jeopardize the MLS season due to start on February 21.
• PSRA has also filed an unfair labor practices charge with the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB), alleging that PRO engaged in 'direct dealing,' bypassing union leadership and communicating directly with PSRA members.
• The PSRA had asked for pay scale increases of up to 90%, with the largest increases being reserved for its lowest-paid members. PRO countered with an offer that featured single-digit increases.
• The first match that could be affected by a potential work stoppage features Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami hosting Real Salt Lake on February 21.

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