“Americans experienced the pain of delays and shortages of goods during the pandemic-era supply chain backlogs in 2021. It would be unconscionable to allow a contract dispute to inflict such a shock to our economy,” said Suzanne P. Clark, President and CEO of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, in a letter to the President.
“These ports collectively handle more than 68% of all containerized exports and 56% of imports for the nation, with a daily trade value exceeding $2.1 billion.”
“Taft-Hartley would provide time for both parties in negotiation to reach a deal on a new labour contract,” Clark continued. “We understand labour negotiations are complex, but we urge you to protect our economy by invoking Taft-Hartley and avoiding a work stoppage.”
According to a new national poll from the U.S. Chamber, a majority of American voters (57%) support the Biden Administration taking action to keep the ports open and operating while negotiations continue, while roughly 20% of those surveyed said they were opposed to federal intervention.