AmericanHort, along with 267 local, state, and federal trade associations, have sent a letter urging the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) and the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) to return to negotiations and secure a new labor contract before the January 15 deadline. The letter, shared with key stakeholders across the Biden administration, the Trump transition team, and Congress, emphasizes the critical need for continuous bargaining to resolve disagreements, including those surrounding automation and modernization. Highlighting the widespread supply chain disruptions caused by the October strike and ongoing uncertainty, the letter underscores the importance of achieving a balanced resolution to ensure the competitiveness of U.S. ports and the stability of businesses nationwide.