SAN FRANCISCO (BRAIN) — A contract between dockworkers and West Coast port owners expired at 5 p.m. Tuesday, but both sides agreed to continue normal operations at 29 West Coast ports.
The Pacific Maritime Association and International Longshore & Warehouse Union have been negotiating a new contract for months. While the sides did not agreed to a formal contract extension, they made a joint announcement early Wednesday saying they would continue operations.
The contract applies to almost 20,000 workers.
"Both sides understand the strategic importance of the ports to the local, regional and U.S. economies, and are mindful of the need to finalize a new coast-wide contract as soon as possible to ensure continuing confidence in the West Coast ports and avoid any disruption to the jobs and commerce they support," the joint release said.
In May, the Bicycle Product Suppliers Association joined other trade groups in urging both sides to reach a swift settlement to their negotations.
