Tentative Labor Deal Reached by West Coast Dockworkers and Ports

After months of intense negotiations, resulting in delays and disruptions at West Coast ports, the union representing thousands of dockworkers has reached a tentative agreement with their employers for a new labor contract.

The International Longshore and Warehouse Union’s Coast Longshore Division and the Pacific Maritime Association, which represents terminal operators and ocean carriers, jointly announced on Wednesday night that they have reached a new six-year contract deal.

The negotiations between the two sides began in May 2022 and dragged on for several months. As a result, major ports like Los Angeles, Long Beach, and Oakland experienced work disruptions and shutdowns.

Acting Labor Secretary Julie Su played a crucial role in facilitating this agreement, as acknowledged by both the ILWU and the PMA. President Biden also commended her for her expertise and efforts in keeping the negotiations going.

“Above all, I congratulate the port workers who have worked heroically throughout the pandemic and the numerous challenges it has brought. They will finally receive the pay, benefits, and quality of life they deserve,” said President Biden.

Although the specific details of the agreement have not been disclosed, it still needs to be ratified by the union members and employers.

The ILWU Coast Longshore Division represents over 22,000 dockworkers at 29 ports in California, Oregon, and Washington. The Port of Los Angeles and the Port of Long Beach, which together make up the San Pedro port complex, are among the busiest ports in the world, handling approximately 29% of all waterborne imports and exports in the United States.