Client Alert: Update on East Coast Labor Talks
Contract negotiations abruptly broke off Wednesday (8/22) between the International Longshoremen’s Association and their employers, the U.S. Maritime Association, after management presented labor with a proposal described as ‘take it or leave it’ according to the Journal of Commerce.
Ongoing local and regional negotiations were likewise halted.
The union’s current contract, which covers 14 ports along the East and Gulf Coasts, runs out on September 30.
Contingency Planning
We urge all clients to communicate decisions for the rerouting of cargo to us by the first week of September to avoid possible strike.
July Recap
Negotiations continued after a short recess in early July. Both sides exchanges proposals on wages, benefits, work rules, etc. On July 31, lead negotiators announced that the talks were moving in a positive direction, with preliminary agreement on technology and chassis maintenance. Local officials for labor and management were ordered to begin negotiation on local, regional, and port specific agreements.
More info
USMX Urges ILA to Engage in “Meaningful” Contract Negotiations
U.S. Maritime Alliance