"MLS Season in Jeopardy: Referees Reject Contract, Potential Lockout Looms"

The Professional Soccer Referees Association (PSRA) rejected a proposed new collective bargaining agreement (CBA) with the Professional Referees Organization (PRO), leading to a lockout of referees starting at midnight ET on Saturday. The dispute revolves around issues of fair compensation, benefits, and quality-of-life concerns for referees. The rejection of a no strike/no lockout proposal and a second unfair labor practice charge against PRO indicate that the two sides are still far apart. As a result, the MLS season is set to begin with replacement officials as negotiations continue.