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Houston-based dockworkers are part of a national strike that began at midnight that affects docks on the East and Gulf Coasts. It is the first large-scale work stoppage for the 45-thousand port workers represented by the International Longshoremen’s Association in almost half a century. This strike at 36 U.S. ports came about after negotiations for a new contract broke down over wages and terminal automation issues.
For the first time since 1977, dockworkers have halted the flow of about half of the nation’s ocean shipping and cargo deliveries. The union is negotiating with the United States Maritime Alliance for a new six-year contract.
