LCA Request re: USMAX and ILA Labor Contract
To: Louisiana Congressional Delegation
On behalf of the members of the Louisiana Chemical Association and the Louisiana Chemical Industry Alliance, I want to express our serious concern over the state of the labor contract negotiations between the United States Maritime Alliance (USMAX) and the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA). Given the economic consequences of a potential strike, we urge you to give immediate attention to this matter to aid in these negotiations and assist in finding a reasonable resolution to this contract dispute.
The Master Contract between the USMX and ILA, which stipulates the terms and conditions for employment at ports on the East and Gulf Coasts of the United States, is set to expire on September 30th of this year. If no agreement is reached the ILA leadership has warned of a potential work stoppage at East and Gulf Coast ports beginning as early as October 1st of this year. This would result in delays and dire impacts on our supply chains, economy, and American consumers.
While we understand issues persist in the contract negotiations between the USMX and the ILA, it is imperative that both parties remain at the bargaining table for as long as necessary to reach an agreement that avoids a work stoppage and the serious negative economic consequences that would follow. We hope that Congress and the Biden administration will utilize every authority at their disposal to ensure the continuing flow of goods and avoid undue harm to American consumers and the Nation’s economy.
Sincerely,
Greg Bowser
President & CEO, LCA & LCIA
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About the Louisiana Chemical Association
The Louisiana Chemical Association (LCA) was formed in 1959 to promote a positive business climate for chemical manufacturing that ensures long-term economic growth for its 70 member companies that operate more than 100 sites throughout Louisiana.
LCA, Louisiana Chemical Industry Alliance and related organizations work to protect and expand Louisiana’s petrochemical manufacturing base. The industry must have a unified voice in state governmental activities because legislative and regulatory actions can affect capital investment and job retention and growth.
LCA is governed by a Board of Directors that consists of 17 member company representatives, primarily plant managers and divisional vice presidents. LCA has an experienced staff with expertise in the chemical industry, environmental, health, safety, security, governmental affairs, communications and association management.