How the Longshoreman’s port strike could impact Utah
Sep 30, 2024, 1:00 PM | Updated: 1:20 pm
FILE - Containers are moved at the Port of New York and New Jersey in Elizabeth, N.J., on June 30, 2021. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig, File)
(AP Photo/Seth Wenig, File)
SALT LAKE CITY — The looming port strike could have impacts here in Utah. Many warehouse workers and truck drivers could see very slow days.
The International Longshoreman’s Association is threatening a strike that could shut down ports in the East and on the Gulf coasts. According to the Associated Press, 45,000 union members plan to walk off the job at midnight.
AP reported that the strike would affect truck drivers, warehouse workers, and factory workers across the country.
Dave Davis, the president of the Utah Retail Merchants Association, spoke with Dave and Dujanovic. He said Utah can’t do its part in the supply chain until the goods leave the ports.
“It really is a chain. And it’s the old adage about the chain is only as strong as its weakest link. This would represent, if there was a strike, a weak kink in that supply chain.”
Utah is referred to as the “Crossroads of the West” for its flow of traffic and consistent rail lines. A strike could impact work across the state.
AP predicts that the strike could affect grocery items like bananas and alcohol, as well as car parts.
“Those goods may be able to get to U.S. ports, but then not be able to be processed in an efficient manner,” said Davis.
If the strike continues, holiday items like Christmas trees and gifts from overseas could be impacted, according to AP.
