Labor contracts covering 22,000 port workers in 29 facilities on the West coast have expired.  At this time the International Longshore and Warehouse Union representing workers and the Pacific Maritime Association comprising port operators have commenced negotiations but without an imminent threat of labor action.  In a joint statement, the Union and the port operators noted, "both sides understand the strategic importance of the ports to the local, regional and U.S. economies and are mindful of a need to finalize a new coast-wide contract as soon as possible".  The ‘No Strike’ Clause in the contract fell away with expiry on July 1st.

Representative business groups including industry and agriculture have urged the White House to become involved at an early stage in the negotiations.  It is understood that Marty Walsh, Secretary of Labor is in discussion with both sides to expedite a new contract. 

It is obvious that either a strike or work-to-rule action would further exacerbate supply chains resulting in disruptions and additional inflation that would be especially embarrassing to the Administration before the midterm elections.