Hurricane Helene has wreaked havoc across the southeastern U.S., resulting in at least 100 deaths and causing widespread power outages and flooding.

In light of the devastation caused by the hurricane, Senator Tim Scott of South Carolina has urged dockworkers to postpone a planned strike, highlighting the need to assist those impacted by the storm.

The strike, which involves 45,000 members of the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA), is scheduled to begin at midnight if their contract demands are not met.

The ILA is currently negotiating for higher wages and a ban on the automation of equipment used in freight operations.

President Biden has the authority under the Taft-Hartley Act to intervene in labor disputes that threaten the U.S. economy, which could involve imposing an 80-day cooling-off period.

However, Biden has expressed reluctance to utilize the Taft-Hartley Act, emphasizing the importance of collective bargaining rights in this situation.