The International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) is currently in negotiations with the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) regarding a potential wage increase. The ILA, led by its President, is pushing for a substantial raise for its members. The last strike by the ILA in 1977 resulted in an 80 cent per hour raise, equivalent to about $4 in today’s currency.
Recently, the Biden administration intervened, urging both parties to consider a $4 per hour increase annually to prevent a strike. The ILA expressed willingness to accept this proposal, but the USMX was hesitant and only offered a total raise of $18 per hour over the contract's duration, approximately $3 per year.
ILA President rejected this offer, emphasizing that the management group could easily afford a $5 per hour raise, citing their substantial profits in recent years. The union had initially demanded a $5 per hour increase each year for a six-year contract, aiming to raise the top hourly pay from $39 to $69.
The USMX has not yet responded to the ILA President’s statements, leaving the negotiations in a state of uncertainty. The outcome of these discussions will have significant implications for the wages and working conditions of ILA members and the operations of ports and terminals represented by the USMX.
