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Port strike could have severe economic impact on Alabama, officials warn: ‘It’s a tragedy’

Alabama economic officials and lawmakers said today’s inauguration of an International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) strike could severely affect the state’s – and the US – economy at a crucial time, if it goes on for very long.

About 45,000 union members nationwide went on strike at midnight. Roughly about 170 of those are in Mobile, according to the ILA local chapter in Mobile.

The work stoppage affects 36 ports, including Mobile, and is the first by the union since 1977.

The Wall Street Journal is reporting the ILA rejected an offer Monday of a 50% wage increase over six years, up from an earlier proposed 40% increase in wages, along with improved benefits.

The union is seeking a 77% wage increase over six years, which would raise the base hourly rate for a dockworker to $69 from $39. But thorny issues over automation are also part of the talks.