News

Longshoremen accept new contract

A new longshoremen’s union contract ensures imports and exports will move through U.S. ports for the next six years.

More than 99% of the 24-thousand east coast and gulf shore International Longshoreman’s Union members voted to approve the pact covering fourteen ports last week.  The approval vote gives union members a 62% pay raise over the six years of the contract, accelerated raises and improved benefits. Terminal operators and ocean carriers can also introduce limited container handling automation equipment with conditions that protect union jobs.

The deal ensures uninterrupted flow of imports and exports through these ports, including agricultural exports.  The U.S. is a major exporter of corn, soybeans, and dairy products.