Tens of thousands of dockworkers from the East and Gulf coasts have gone on strike after their contracts expired at midnight on October 1, impacting operations at 14 major ports. The strike threatens to disrupt the shipping industry, with potential shortages and price hikes affecting a wide range of goods for Americans.

On Monday, officials from the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, along with New York Governor Kathy Hochul, were working on contingency plans to manage the fallout from the walkout.

The International Longshoreman Association (ILA), representing 45,000 workers, has vowed to stay on the picket lines until a “fair contract” is reached with the United States Maritime Alliance. The workers are demanding a 77% wage increase over six years and a total ban on automated equipment such as cranes and gates.

Without a new agreement, the strike could result in significant delays in shipping vital goods like cars, fresh produce, and electronics. Prolonged disruptions could cost the U.S. economy billions of dollars each day.

Daniel May, a port worker, emphasized the union’s concerns, saying, “Automation at our nation’s ports should worry everyone. Robots don’t pay taxes or spend money in their communities. The ILA will fight until its members get the contract they deserve.”

Governor Hochul reassured residents that the state is working tirelessly to keep grocery stores and medical facilities stocked with essentials, while expressing hope for a swift and fair resolution to the labor dispute.