Union members from the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) in Florida gathered in Tallahassee for a five-day legislative conference organized by the IAM Florida State Council. The event brought together both active union members and retirees, who met with state representatives and senators to discuss issues such as labor rights, improved wages, and the protection of pensions and Social Security.
Leaders and activists at the conference highlighted their concerns about proposed legislation they view as harmful to unions. They stressed the importance of opposing measures that could weaken collective bargaining rights or undermine financial stability for workers.
By meeting directly with lawmakers, IAM members sought to represent machinists from regions across Florida, including areas like the Kennedy Space Center, South Florida, and the Panhandle. The participants said their primary objective was to shape policies that would improve conditions for all union workers while preparing for upcoming political challenges in the 2026 midterm elections.
“We want to make sure our voices are heard so that working people have a say in shaping laws that affect their livelihoods,” one leader stated during the conference.
