Statement by Senator Dianne Feinstein
- On the Lockout at West Coast Ports -
October 2, 2002

"The dispute that has closed West Coast ports is growing in its economic impact on the Coast and is now spreading to other places throughout our nation. Each day the dispute continues, the situation becomes more serious.

I believe the lockout should be ended immediately. Work should resume at all 29 ports and both sides should return to the bargaining table.

With our nation in the economic doldrums and at the brink of war, we cannot afford to have this dispute cause further damage to our economy.

I have offered my services to try to reach an agreement should both sides wish it. If the lockout isn't stopped by the end of the week, I believe the President should invoke Taft-Hartley to require an 80-day cooling off period and a return to work."

###