The strike, which is centered around wage disputes and automation issues, is the first of its kind by the union since 1977, despite reported advancements in negotiations.
As reported by The Post Millennial, the International Longshoremen’s Association, which is in contract with 36 ports from Maine to Texas, spearheaded the strike. Union President Harold Daggett justified the strike, stating that a 77 percent pay increase over the six-year contract was necessary to offset years of minor increases and inflation. "The increase was necessary to compensate for years of minor increases and inflation," Daggett said.
October 01, 2024
In response, the US Maritime Alliance, representing the ports, proposed a 50 percent raise over six years on Monday evening. The alliance also pledged to uphold automation limits from the previous contract, despite the union's demand for a total ban on automation. The alliance's offer also included tripling employer contributions to retirement plans and broadening healthcare options.
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The strike's impact was felt even before it officially began, with ports starting to cease operations on Monday. While experts suggest that the immediate effect on US consumers may be minimal due to retailers' existing stock, the strike's duration could potentially delay holiday gift items. An extended strike could lead to supply shortages and increased prices.
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The strike is expected to have a direct impact on perishable imports like produce and could lead to traffic congestion of vehicles and goods at ports. Jay Dhokia, founder of supply chain management and logistics firm Pro3PL, warned of the potential repercussions. "If the strikes go ahead, they will cause enormous delays across the supply chain, a ripple effect which will no doubt roll into 2025 and cause chaos across the industry," Dhokia said.
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Financial giant JP Morgan has estimated that the strike could potentially cost the US economy between $3.8 billion and $4.5 billion per day.
President Joe Biden, when questioned by reporters, stated he had no plans to intervene in the potential work stoppage. Despite having the power to temporarily halt the strike using the Taft-Hartley Act, which would allow for an 80-day cooling-off period between the parties, Biden has chosen not to exercise this option.
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Meanwhile, Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo, part of the Biden-Harris administration, stated during a CNBC interview that she was not focusing on the potential dockworker strike, despite the potential for it to cripple supply chains and increase the costs of goods for Americans.
