Acting Secretary of Labor Julie Su has issued a statement regarding the ongoing negotiations between the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) and the International Longshoremen’s Association.

“Over the last week and more, I have spent hours on the phone and in meetings with the parties urging them to find a way to reach a fair contract,” said Su. She emphasized the critical role port workers played during the pandemic, ensuring that essential goods were delivered despite significant health risks. Su also highlighted their importance in aiding recovery efforts following Hurricane Helene.

“These workers will help communities recover from the devastating effects of Hurricane Helene,” she stated. “As these companies make billions and their CEOs bring in millions of dollars in compensation per year, they have refused to put an offer on the table that reflects workers’ sacrifice and contributions to their employer’s profits.”

Su credited the Biden-Harris administration's leadership for exceeding economic expectations and stressed that there is enough room for both companies and workers to thrive. “The American economy has defied all expectations thanks to the Biden-Harris administration’s leadership,” she noted.

She called on both parties to resume negotiations with a focus on fairness for workers. “The parties need to get back to the negotiating table, and that must begin with these giant shipping magnates acknowledging that if they can make record profits, their workers should share in that economic success.”