The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM Union) joined the National Federation of Federal Employees (NFFE-IAM) and other unions in a rally urging the U.S. Senate to pass the Protect America’s Workforce Act (PAWA). The event gathered union leaders, federal employees, and elected officials who called for legislative action after the bill passed in the House of Representatives.
Speakers at the rally included NFFE-IAM National President Randy Erwin, Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Representative Rashida Tlaib (D-Mich.), as well as other labor advocates. “We have this essential piece of legislation, which passed the House and is now waiting for action in the Senate,” said Erwin. “This bill would protect the U.S. Constitution and the First Amendment rights of American workers by reversing an unconstitutional executive order that stripped more than one million federal employees of their right to collectively bargain.”
The proposed law aims to reverse an executive order issued on March 27, 2025, by President Donald Trump that removed collective bargaining rights from federal workers. Supporters argue that this order was a direct challenge to civil servants’ ability to negotiate over workplace conditions.
Federal employees are responsible for various critical functions across public safety, national security, and community services nationwide. Union representatives emphasize that restoring collective bargaining rights is necessary for ensuring safe workplaces and fair treatment for these workers.
The IAM Union continues to support NFFE-IAM and other organizations advocating for immediate Senate approval of PAWA to reinstate worker protections. Federal employees and supporters are encouraged to contact their senators about voting in favor of restoring these rights.
