SB 34 is rational policy for workers, air quality, and economic stability

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OPINION – A recent opinion piece claiming that Senate Bill 34 (SB 34) represents “political overreach” that will “undermine” California’s ports is a familiar argument—one that prioritizes short-term profits for foreign ocean carriers over long-term economic stability and public accountability. Speaking on behalf of the 15,000 longshore workers who are the backbone of the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach, I can say this plainly: SB 34 is a rational, balanced policy that protects middle-class union jobs, prevents taxpayer dollars from being used to automate those jobs away, and ensures continued environmental progress without destabilizing California’s economic foundation. The bill earned broad, non-partisan support, including votes from Democrats and a significant number of Republican legislators—proof that protecting good jobs and responsible use of public funds transcend party lines.

The Op-Ed’s major omission: no public funds for automation
The most glaring omission in the recent op-ed is its silence on one of SB 34’s central provisions: the prohibition on using public funds for automation. The bill clearly bans the use of “public funds or grants… to require, incentivize, encourage, or otherwise promote the use of automated, remotely controlled, or remotely operated equipment.” This is not anti-innovation—it’s basic fiscal responsibility. As the ILWU has consistently argued: the state should not use taxpayer money to put taxpayers out of work for the benefit of foreign-owned ocean carriers and their subsidiaries.

The op-ed’s author warns that SB 34 will “choke off innovation.” In reality, the bill simply ensures that if terminal operators want to invest in expensive automation that eliminates California jobs, they do so with private capital, not public subsidies. That is not “logistical dysfunction”—it’s sound governance and responsible economic policy.

Economic stability and environmental progress
The op-ed also ignores how SB 34 promotes both economic and environmental stability. The bill’s provisions prevent harmful regulatory overreach while protecting the progress that has made California’s ports global environmental leaders.

1. Stopping Cargo Caps: SB 34 prevents the South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) from imposing arbitrary “cargo caps” or cruise ship passenger limits at the ports until 2031. The ILWU has been deeply concerned about the SCAQMD’s consideration of such measures under its proposed Indirect Source Rule (ISR). Cargo caps would be a genuine threat to California’s supply chain and economic throughput—something the op-ed conveniently fails to mention. SB 34 provides the certainty needed for continued investment and growth at the ports.
2. Protecting Jobs While Meeting Climate Mandates: The ILWU and the ports have worked hand-in-hand for years to advance environmental progress. Through the Clean Air Action Plan (CAAP), emissions have dropped dramatically since 2005—diesel particulate matter by 92%, nitrogen oxides by 71%, and sulfur oxides by 98%. These achievements prove that California can continue to lead on clean air without sacrificing good jobs.

SB 34 upholds that dual commitment. It ensures that environmental progress continues without destabilizing the working families who live and work in the very communities most affected by port policy decisions.

A balanced approach that keeps California competitive
Concerns about lost market share overlook the real dynamics at play. Ports in states like Texas, Florida, and Georgia have gained cargo primarily because of their lax environmental regulations, not because California protects workers. Our state has shown that strong labor standards and ambitious climate goals can coexist.

SB 34 is not an overreach; it is responsible governance—a balanced, forward-looking policy that keeps California’s ports competitive, sustainable, and fair for all.

Governor Newsom has the opportunity to once again demonstrate that California can lead the nation with vision and fairness. SB 34 is not about choosing between jobs and clean air—it’s about ensuring both thrive together. Signing this bill will reaffirm California’s commitment to a future where economic growth, climate leadership, and worker dignity coexist. For nearly a century, longshore workers have powered the state’s economy and safeguarded its ports. Now, we ask the Governor to safeguard them in return—by signing SB 34 into law and standing with the working men and women who keep California moving.

Gary Herrera is the President of the International Longshore and Warehouse Union (ILWU) Local 13.