Official statements from the Biden administration or major news outlets

US Dockworkers to Strike October 1st, Threatening East and Gulf Coast Supply Chains

Sep 30, 2024, 04:23 AM

The International Longshoremen's Association (ILA), representing 45,000 dockworkers at 36 U.S. ports, is set to go on strike starting October 1st at 12:01 a.m. The strike is expected to impact East and Gulf Coast ports, which handle 40-50% of the nation's imports and exports, and involve 85,000 dockworkers from Maine to Texas. The union, led by Harold Daggett, is demanding a 77% pay raise and a total ban on port automation. Experts warn that the strike could lead to significant supply chain disruptions, empty shelves, and rising prices, particularly affecting holiday shopping. The strike could cost the U.S. economy between $4.5 billion and $7.5 billion per week. Key industry and government officials are urging both parties to reach an agreement, but no talks are currently scheduled. The Biden administration has stated it will not intervene at this time.