News / Behind drayage driver strike at LA and Long Beach, bigger union issue looms

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Much of the news coming out of the US west coast at the moment is around the ongoing negotiations between terminal employers and the International Longshore and Warehouse Union over a new master contract. However, another issue is becoming increasingly important: the status of independent truckers serving the ports. Around 120 walked out earlier this week in protest at “workplace violations”. Although the drivers remain unaffiliated, they are supported by the powerful Teamster trucking union and could garner further support from ILWU members.