Dockworkers at the Port of New York and New Jersey walked off the job after midnight Tuesday; part of a strike that could have a profound impact on the region’s economy and is the largest the industry has seen in almost 50 years.
Demanding better wages and a promise that their jobs won’t be taken over by automation, about 45,000 members of the International Longshoremen’s Association stopped work at ports from Maine to Texas as their contract with the United States Maritime Alliance expired. The biggest port on the East Coast is New York and New Jersey and the strike — the first since 1977 — could potentially drive up already inflated prices of goods and food.
At least 35 ships on their way to the region will have to anchor offshore, supervised by the U.S. Coast Guard, while the union tries to reach a deal, according to Port Authority Executive Director Rick Cotton.
The longer they sit, the more chance there is for fresh produce to start going bad, according to industry experts. Other imported goods like wine and spirits won’t be able to reach store shelves or restaurant bars.
New York Gov. Kathy Hochul said the state has been preparing for the strike, “working around the clock to ensure that our grocery stores and medical facilities have the essential products they need.”
In a written statement just after midnight, Hochul said it’s “critical” for the unions to reach a fair agreement as soon as possible to keep the ports functioning. In the meantime, she warned New Yorkers not to start panic buying at grocery stores – if the strike only lasts a few days, she said consumers won’t notice too much disruption.
The Port Authority did not immediately respond to a request for comment about the strike Tuesday, which they said will primarily affect container ships and auto shipping. Imports and exports of road salt, cement, scrap metal, edible oils, municipal waste and orange juice will continue, along with cruise ships.
In a statement Monday, the United States Maritime Alliance said they had traded counter offers related to wages with the ILA.
“Our offer would increase wages by nearly 50 percent, triple employer contributions to employee retirement plans, strengthen our health care options and retain the current language around automation and semi-automation,” the USMX statement read. “We are hopeful that this could allow us to fully resume collective bargaining around the other outstanding issues – in an effort to reach an agreement.”
The ILA called that suggested wage package “unacceptable.” They did not immediately respond to a request for comment Tuesday morning.
This is a developing story and may be updated.