SC Ports, Union Must Adjust after Supreme Court Decision
In a significant move, the U.S. Supreme Court recently refused to reconsider a lower court’s order directing the State Ports Authority to utilize an increased number of union labor at the Hugh K. Leatherman terminal in North Charleston. While the decision stirred disappointment among state officials who advocate for the state’s right to regulate its workforce at owned facilities, it presents an opportunity to finally put an end to the stalemate.’
Unlocking Port Capacity and Prioritizing Workforce
The decision intends to shake off the dormancy that seized the Leatherman Terminal since its commissioning in 2021. Barbara Melvin, the President, and CEO of S.C. Ports Authority, acknowledged the disappointment with the court’s decision but laid emphasis on making the most of the accelerated situation. “We all have a job to do now, and that’s get the Leatherman terminal reopened,” she addressed her board.
The recent dip in shipping volumes coupled with amplified efficiency at the Wando Welch Terminal placed less strain on the ports. Nevertheless, Melvin noted that shipping trends are cyclical, an uptick is expected, and the ready Leatherman Terminal will come into play.
Sealing commitment to this transition, Melvin stated that they will work together with the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) to bring forward a solution that unlocks terminal capacity. It also underscores the need to take care of the workforce and to deliver excellent service to customers.
Negotiating New Workforce Dynamics
South Carolina ports have adopted a hybrid labor arrangement for several decades, featuring nonunion, state employees operating cranes and other heavy machineries, and unionized Longshoremen executing the rest. The court’s decision will increase the number of unionized workers.
Despite concerns, increasing the unionized workforce is less likely to have any significant outside impact. Contrary to assertions from state officials, more unionized employment will not discourage new industrial recruits, as the state remains one of the nation’s most hostile for organized labor.
Discussions between the agency and ILA will, therefore, serve to protect current non-union state employees and offer union members growth opportunities through more hours and access to new training. “It’s time for all involved to take a deep breath, move on — and make the best of this new day”, added Barbara Melvin.
Author: STAFF HERE MYRTLE BEACH
The HERE Myrtle Beach Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Myrtle Beach community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Myrtle Beach Our team includes lifelong Myrtle Beach residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent developments along the Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach’s tourism and hospitality industry, and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Coastal Carolina University programs). Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
