
US Port Workers and Operators Strike Deal to End East Coast Walkout, According to Reuters
U.S. East Coast and Gulf ports have resumed operations following a tentative labor agreement reached between unionized dockworkers and an employer group, bringing an end to a three-day strike.
Announced on Thursday, the agreement features a wage increase of approximately 62% over six years and encompasses around 45,000 members.
Here’s a summary of the key events leading to the agreement:
May 13, 2024
The International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) and the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) announce plans to initiate bargaining after May 17 in hopes of securing a new deal before the existing six-year contract expires on September 30.
June 10, 2024
The ILA suspends negotiations due to conflicts over automation, triggered by the discovery that APM’s terminals and Maersk Line were implementing an Auto Gate system that processes trucks without labor.
June 11, 2024
The USMX states that certain issues will need additional discussions among local parties and expresses readiness to re-engage with the bargaining committee.
July 12, 2024
ILA President Harold Daggett indicates that the prospect of a strike on October 1 is increasing due to contract violations by some USMX members, resulting in earlier negotiations being canceled.
August 23, 2024
The USMX claims difficulties in arranging a meeting with the ILA to resume negotiations.
September 5, 2024
Approximately 300 ILA delegates conclude a two-day wage scale meeting, unanimously supporting Daggett’s call for an October 1 strike if an agreement isn’t achieved.
September 23, 2024
The ILA announces that while it has had several discussions with the USMX recently, a deadlock persists over wages, with the employer group offering an "unacceptable wage increase package."
September 24, 2024
The White House states it will not intervene to facilitate a negotiation between the two parties.
September 25, 2024
Agriculture groups urge the White House to take action to prevent a looming strike.
September 26, 2024
The USMX files a charge of unfair labor practice with the National Labor Relations Board to prompt the ILA back to the negotiating table.
September 29, 2024
President Biden clarifies that he does not plan to intervene to prevent a port strike.
September 30, 2024
The USMX enhances its proposal, promising a nearly 50% wage hike, increasing employer contributions to retirement plans, and improving healthcare options. It also seeks an extension of the current master contract to continue negotiations.
October 1, 2024
The ILA initiates a strike at ports along the U.S. East Coast.
October 3, 2024
The ILA and USMX successfully reach a tentative agreement for a new contract, which includes a significant wage increase over the next six years.