Biden Urged to Prevent Freight Rail Shutdown Over Labor Dispute

Biden Urged to Prevent Freight Rail Shutdown Over Labor Dispute

The US freight rail system is facing a potential shutdown due to a labor dispute over issues like paid sick leave. Hundreds of industry associations are urging the Biden administration to intervene and avert a rail stoppage, which could significantly impact the economy. This article analyzes the potential consequences of a rail shutdown and explores possible solutions, emphasizing the importance of cooperation among all parties to maintain the stable operation of the rail system. The crisis highlights the critical role of rail in the national supply chain and the need for a swift resolution.

01/16/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
Read More
West Coast Ports Secure Early Labor Deal Averting Strike

West Coast Ports Secure Early Labor Deal Averting Strike

The Pacific Maritime Association proposed a three-year contract extension to the International Longshore and Warehouse Union, aiming to avert another economic crisis caused by West Coast port labor disputes. The agreement covers key issues like wage increases, pension contributions, and healthcare benefits, but union approval faces challenges. Automation and regulation are long-term challenges requiring collaborative solutions between labor and management to achieve mutual benefit and ensure supply chain stability. The proposed extension seeks to maintain operational efficiency and prevent disruptions that could negatively impact the national economy.

01/29/2026 Logistics
Read More
Retailers Seek White House Help Amid Dockworker Strike Fears

Retailers Seek White House Help Amid Dockworker Strike Fears

The National Retail Federation (NRF), along with 177 trade associations, is urging the White House to intervene in the labor negotiations between the International Longshoremen's Association (ILA) and the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) to avert a potential strike at the end of September. A strike would severely disrupt supply chains, impacting the retail industry, consumers, and the overall economy. The NRF emphasizes that the White House should draw on past successful interventions to facilitate an agreement, ensuring smooth port operations and cargo transportation to avoid an economic crisis.

01/29/2026 Logistics
Read More
Retailers Seek White House Help in Dockworker Talks to Avoid Supply Chain Disruptions

Retailers Seek White House Help in Dockworker Talks to Avoid Supply Chain Disruptions

The National Retail Federation (NRF) is urging the White House to intervene in labor negotiations between the International Longshoremen's Association (ILA) and the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) to avert a potential port strike that could disrupt the US economy and supply chain. This analysis examines the background of the labor dispute, the NRF's mediation efforts, the White House's potential role, the potential impact of a strike, and the positions of all parties involved. It also proposes strategies for mitigating the impact of a strike and building a more resilient supply chain.

01/29/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
Read More
Retailers Face Holiday Strain As Port Strikes Threaten Imports

Retailers Face Holiday Strain As Port Strikes Threaten Imports

The National Retail Federation (NRF) reports that US import volume remains high as retailers proactively prepare for potential port strikes on the East and Gulf Coasts. July imports increased by 21% year-over-year, with August projected to reach a new high for the year. The NRF urges labor and management to return to the negotiating table to avoid a strike that would disrupt supply chains and the economy. Full-year import volume is expected to increase by 12.3%, while retail sales are projected to grow by 2.5%-3.5%.

01/30/2026 Logistics
Read More
Bipartisan Bill Proposes Tax Credit Modernization for Short Line Railroads

Bipartisan Bill Proposes Tax Credit Modernization for Short Line Railroads

A bipartisan bill has been introduced in the US Senate to enhance the short line railroad tax credit. The bill aims to incentivize private investment, improve rail transport efficiency, and promote regional economic development by adjusting the credit cap, expanding coverage, and introducing an inflation index. These changes are designed to make the tax credit more effective in supporting short line railroads, which are crucial for connecting rural communities and industries to the national freight network. The proposed legislation seeks to modernize and strengthen the infrastructure backbone of the American economy.

01/30/2026 Logistics
Read More