A government decision to drop an investigation takes several port truckers out of immediate legal danger, but leaves their long-term efforts to organize bound in bureaucratic muck.
Although the Federal Trade Commission has stopped its inquiry into the organizing efforts of East Coast port truckers, the agency’s silence on crucial aspects of the case could make it difficult for draymen to continue efforts to improve their working conditions.
The FTC issued subpoenas to several truckers last fall just before a large port unionizing meeting, but officials would not confirm an investigation was under way. However, a agency spokesman recently admitted the inquiry was terminated and would not comment further.
The decision is a mixed victory for the Teamsters and the International Longshoreman’s Association — two former antagonists now working together to improve the working conditions of port truckers. Officials of the unions said they will continue organizing efforts, which began with the meeting in Charleston, S.C., in December, despite questions surrounding the legal status of draymen.
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