Mon Sep 30 22:38:15 UTC 2024: ## Biden Administration Urges Port Operators to Negotiate Ahead of Potential Strike

**Washington, D.C.** – With a major labor contract set to expire on Monday, the Biden administration is urging port operators to negotiate a fair deal with the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) to avert a potential strike at East and Gulf coast ports.

Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, Acting Labor Secretary Julie Su, and Lael Brainard, director of the White House National Economic Council, met with members of the United States Maritime Alliance (USMA) on Friday. The officials emphasized the importance of reaching an agreement with the union, stressing that both sides should be at the negotiating table.

The White House is concerned about the potential for a strike, which could disrupt the flow of goods through major U.S. ports. However, the administration believes the immediate impact on the economy might be limited due to increased retail inventories and enhanced federal tools for monitoring supply chains.

The ILA has expressed concerns over the implementation of new technologies at U.S. ports, fearing potential job losses. Negotiations are expected to continue over the weekend to avoid a strike.

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