The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM Union) joined the National Federation of Federal Employees (NFFE-IAM) and other unions at a rally to urge the U.S. Senate to pass the Protect America’s Workforce Act (PAWA). The event, held after the bill cleared the House of Representatives, included union leaders, federal workers, and elected officials calling for restored collective bargaining rights for federal employees.
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 labor advocates and activists. According to Erwin, “We have this essential piece of legislation, which passed the House and is now waiting for action in the Senate. 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 Protect America’s Workforce Act 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 attack on civil servants’ ability to negotiate workplace conditions.
Federal employees are responsible for a range of services vital to public safety, national security, and community support across the United States. Advocates say restoring collective bargaining rights is necessary so these workers can continue advocating for safe workplaces and fair treatment.
The IAM Union has expressed its support for NFFE-IAM and all federal workers in their call for immediate Senate passage of PAWA. Federal employees and supporters are being encouraged to contact their senators in support of the legislation.
