A wide range of national trade associations and agricultural organizations joined in addressing a letter to the President concerning the impending October 1st strike by the International Longshoreman’s Association that would impact all East Coast and Gulf ports.
At issue is the impasse resulting in termination of negotiations between the International Longshoreman’s Association and the United States Maritime Alliance representing port operators. The Union has threatened a strike on October 1st following a vote among rank and file unless an agreement is reached. The 176 signatories to the letter addressed to the Administration called on the parties to resume negotiations.
The Administration has indicated that it would not invoke legislation to force workers to operate without a contract. This is presumably due to proximity to the general election and the political implications of action that might be construed as anti-union.
The West Coast port strike was averted by last minute negotiations and with the involvement of the Secretary of Labor who shuttled between the parties and facilitated conclusion of a satisfactory agreement.
The impending East Coast and Gulf port strike would be damaging to the economy and an embarrassment to the Administration.