PHILADELPHIA (AP) — From Maine to Texas, dockworkers at 36 ports across the eastern United States are on strike for the first time in decades, a work stoppage that could snarl supply chains and cause shortages and higher prices if it stretches on for more than a few weeks.

U.S. ports from Maine to Texas could shut down if a union representing about 45,000 dockworkers carries through with a threatened strike early Tuesday.

A strike by unionized dockworkers at East Coast and Gulf Coast ports could have a potential impact on consumers due to higher food prices caused by delayed or canceled shipments.

U.S. ports from Maine to Texas shut down Tuesday when the union representing about 45,000 dockworkers went on strike for the first time since 1977. A lengthy shutdown could raise prices on goods around the country and potentially cause shortages and price increases at big and small retailers alike as the holiday shopping season — along with a tight presidential election — approaches.

Dockworkers on East and Gulf coasts hit picket lines in strike that could bring higher prices and shortages of goods

Dockworkers at ports from Maine to Texas began walking picket lines early Tuesday in a strike over wages and automation that could reignite inflation and cause shortages of goods if it goes on more than a few weeks.