Washington, D.C. (December 6, 2024): The International Longshoreman’s Association (ILA) shut down ports from Maine to Texas in October and the Sports & Fitness Industry Association (SFIA) pressed for a quick resolution. SFIA was thrilled when the strike was suspended after just three days.
After receiving a significant wage increase in October, port workers returned to work while contract talks continued. Unfortunately, the ILA walked away from the negotiating table for a second time in recent weeks over a dispute on the use of automation at ports. The ILA is firm on its “no automation” position and threatening to shut down commerce flowing through East and Gulf Coast ports.
Despite the ILA and U.S. Maritime Alliance (USMX), which represents the ports, engaging in contract talks, the threat of a repeat strike on January 15 looms due to the breakdown in negotiations. SFIA joined more than 251 business organizations in a letter to the parties pushing for the resumption of contract talks and pressing for a new deal before the strike ‘suspension’ expires next month.
The USMX points out that union members already operate cranes using semi-automated technology to identify high-priority containers and expedite the movement of containers at ports. USMX says the U.S. needs to keep up with technology for supply chain resilience, increased efficiency and capacity, and worker safety. A study commissioned by USMX showed semi-automation created more union jobs, while a similar study commissioned by ILA found semi-automation cost union jobs.
For more information on the East Coast Port Labor Strike please contact Bill Sells, SFIA SVP for Government & Public Affairs [email protected].