U.S. Sen. Tim Scott asks port workers to delay strike as southeast reels from hurricane destruction

CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCBD) – U.S. Senator Tim Scott has called on port workers to delay their impending strike after Hurricane Helene brought widespread destruction to much of the southeast.

A union representing U.S. dockworkers said about 45,000 members will walk off the job at midnight if demands in a contract renegotiation – including increased pay and no automation – are not met by the Sept. 30 deadline.

It would kick off a massive strike that could shut down ports along the east and gulf coast… and it come as much of the southeast reels from major damages caused by Hurricane Helene.

“At least 100 Americans have died, millions have been without power, and flooding continues to devastate homes and communities in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene. I urge the members of the International Longshoremen’s Association to temporarily continue working under their current contract until the suffering from the storm has eased,” said U.S. Senator Tim Scott in a statement Monday afternoon. “As Americans, it is our duty to help those in need access shelter, food, water, and electricity. A strike would greatly disrupt our supply chain and economy, only worsening the pain of those who have already lost everything.”

The six-year master contract between the ILA and the United States Maritime Alliance expires at midnight. ILA members in Charleston are expected to join the strike beginning at 12:01 a.m.