Washington, D.C. (Aug 13, 2024): With the September 30 deadline for a new Contract looming, the International Longshoreman’s Association (ILA) is holding firm in negotiations for a new contract for dockworkers from Maine to Texas. The ILA rejected the latest offer from the U.S. Maritime Alliance (USMX) that included a pay raise 32 percent higher than West Coast dockworkers received last year. The ILA has indicated it is seeking a nearly 80 percent wage increase for dockworkers in the new contract.
In addition, the USMX contract includes a boost in starting salaries, increases in employer retirement contributions, and first-rate healthcare coverage. The ILA has cited an “autogate” at the Port of Mobile as “automation” threatening union jobs and the ILA was never consulted. With ‘Automation’ a major sticking point in contract talks, the USMX proposal requires ports to consult with the ILA on the introduction of new technology that impacts union jobs and hours.
The USMX remains committed to negotiating a Master Contract for all East and Gulf Coast Ports before the current contract expires on September 30th. ILA says the two sides“are very far apart, particularly on economic issues.” ILA President Harold Dagget has consistently said dockworkers will not work past September 30 without a new contract, setting up a potential showdown that will disrupt supply chains. With six weeks to finalize a deal, pressure is on to find common ground or we could see the first East Coast dockworker strike in almost 50 years.
A recent SFIA webinar on Supply Chains included a discussion on East Coast Ports and shipping options. Members can access the webinar recording and slides by clicking here.
For more information, please contact Bill Sells, SFIA SVP for Government & Public Affairs, at [email protected].