East and Gulf Coast port employers have escalated their contract negotiations with the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) by requesting the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) to order the union back to the bargaining table. USMX, representing the employers, stated in a release, "Due to the ILA’s repeated refusal to come to the table and bargain on a new Master Contract, USMX filed an Unfair Labor Practice (ULP) with the National Labor Relations Board and requested immediate injunctive relief – requiring the union to resume bargaining – so that we can negotiate a deal." Talks for a new six-year master contract, which would cover 25,000 union employees involved in container and ro-ro services at approximately three dozen East and Gulf Coast ports, collapsed in June. Key sticking points included wages, benefits, and the integration of technology that could automate certain dockside operations. The ILA has previously announced plans for a strike on both coasts when the current contract expires at midnight on Tuesday. The NLRB filing is not expected to alter this strike deadline. USMX emphasized their respect for the ILA and its members, stating, "USMX has been clear that we value the work of the ILA and have great respect for its members. We have a shared history of working together and are committed to bargaining." The union had not immediately responded to a request for comment. The timeline for the NLRB's response remains uncertain, as an initial investigation would determine whether a formal complaint should be issued.