As negotiations between the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) and the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) continue, Governor Kathy Hochul today disclosed that New York State entities are currently in the process of preparing for a potential strike that could commence on October 1 at ports spanning from Maine to Texas.
Governor Hochul stated, “New York is prepared to provide assistance to working families in the event of a strike as discussions between the ILA and USMX continue with a deadline of October 1.” “As the deadline approaches, I implore the USMX and the ILA to reach a mutually beneficial agreement that guarantees the continuation of commerce through the busiest ports in the United States, including New York.”
It is not anticipated that the potential strike will have an impact on municipal solid waste in the Port of New York and New Jersey, as well as petrochemical products such as gasoline, diesel, and home heating oil. Cruise ships would remain unaffected. In the event of a strike action, Governor Hochul has instructed New York State agencies and authorities to implement the following measures:
Port Authority of New York and New Jersey
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The Port, the busiest on the eastern seaboard, has been the subject of active preparation by PANYNJ in anticipation of the potential for a strike. The Port Authority has been collaborating closely with the commercial trucking industry to guarantee that cargo containing essential goods, medical supplies, and food products that have already been offloaded are transported from Port facilities to their ultimate destinations.. Furthermore, the Port has engaged in discussions with the ILA to determine the most suitable protest sites in order to safeguard free expression.
Ports in the Upstate
We do not believe that a strike will have an impact on Upstate ports, such as Albany, Coeymans, Oswego, and Buffalo.
Health Department
The New York State Department of Health has advised hospitals and nursing homes throughout New York State to maintain a 60-day stockpile of personal protective equipment and other critical goods in anticipation of a potential disruption to the medical products supply chain. DOH and the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services will maintain consistent communication with health care providers to monitor any supply chain impact and redeploy resources as required.
Division of Emergency Services and Homeland Security
The Office of Emergency Management of the New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services is closely monitoring the situation and is collaborating with state agencies to coordinate any potential resource deployments. In the event that they are required, all state stockpiles are prepared to deploy any available resources, including generators.
